West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB5279

Introduced

2/6/26

Refer

2/6/26

Caption

Supplemental Appropriation to the Department of Education-Hope Scholarship Program from Excess Lottery Surplus

Impact

The bill's impact is focused primarily on the education sector, as it seeks to provide additional funding through the Hope Scholarship Program, which is associated with the state’s lottery surplus. This could lead to enhanced educational initiatives or support mechanisms for students in West Virginia, contributing to educational equity and resources. By tapping into surplus revenue, the bill implies a proactive approach to state resource management, particularly in areas that directly affect the youth and educational institutions.

Summary

House Bill 5279 is legislation introduced in the West Virginia Legislature with the purpose of supplementing and amending appropriations of public moneys drawn from the State Fund, specifically from surplus balances in the Excess Lottery Fund. This bill aims to add a new item of appropriation to the State Board of Education for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The introduction of this bill indicates an intention to allocate funding effectively in periods where surplus balances are available, highlighting fiscal responsibility in state budgeting.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 5279 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for increased educational funding. Proponents are likely to view this bill favorably as it seeks to utilize available state funds to enhance educational opportunities for students. However, there may be opposing views concerning the dependency on lottery funds for education, as some may argue it could lead to volatile funding sources or deter long-term funding stability in the educational budget.

Contention

While there does not seem to be significant contention surrounding the current proposal, discussions around similar funding mechanisms often involve debates about the appropriateness and sustainability of using lottery revenues for education. Critics may express concerns over the implications of relying on gambling revenue for critical programs, fearing that it might not provide a stable foundation for long-term educational funding. Additionally, it’s essential for the legislators to ensure that these funds are allocated transparently and effectively to maximize their intended impact.

Latest WV HB5279 Activity

View All Events: WV 2026 Regular Session HB5279

Companion Bills

WV SB871

Similar To Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3517

Previously Filed As

WV HB3357

Supplemental Appropriation - Lottery Surplus - Hope Scholarship

WV HB3356

Supplemental Appropriation - Education - Hope Scholarship

WV HB105

Supplementing and amending appropriations to the Department of Education, State Board of Education – State Department of Education

WV SB786

Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, State Department of Education

WV SB1005

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Education, BOE

WV HB106

Making a supplementary appropriation to the Department of Human Services, Bureau for Medical Services – Policy and Programming and State Board of Education – State Department of Education

WV SB771

Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education

WV HB3369

Supplemental Appropriation - Education - Enrollment

WV SB766

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Human Services

WV SB935

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Homeland Security

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MD HB0390

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MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

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