Budget & Taxes (State Budget)

SJR 21 proposes a constitutional amendment (designated "Amendment 1") that would require West Virginia's state government to limit annual spending increases to no more than the combined growth of the state's population plus inflation. This would directly affect state budget decisions by imposing a strict cap on how much spending can rise each year. The amendment would be submitted to voters in the 2026 general election for approval. If adopted, it would become part of the West Virginia Constitution, altering how state expenditures are managed. The resolution includes procedural steps to number and name the proposed amendment as the "Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Amendment."

HB 5257 removes language requiring specific state funding appropriations for education services for children and adults in correctional facilities and regional jails. It amends West Virginia Code §18-20-5 to eliminate the current requirement that such education must be funded through dedicated state budget allocations. This change allows the State Board of Education, Department of Education, and State Superintendent to provide educational services in these facilities without needing separate annual funding bills. The bill directly affects incarcerated youth and adults who would continue to receive educational opportunities under existing state and federal requirements, contingent on available funding.