West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB5280

Introduced

2/6/26

Refer

2/6/26

Caption

Supplemental Appropriation to the Department of Commerce-Workforce West Virginia from the Unappropriated Surplus Balance

Impact

The bill's passage signifies a strategic approach by the West Virginia legislature to utilize surplus funds effectively. By directing additional resources to the Department of Commerce, the bill aims to bolster workforce programs, which are essential for fostering employment opportunities and addressing skills gaps in the workforce. This reallocation of funds is seen as a proactive move to enhance the state's economic resilience and to support the labor market during a critical period of recovery and growth.

Summary

House Bill 5280 is a supplemental appropriations bill introduced in West Virginia, aimed at amending the state's budget for the fiscal year 2026. Specifically, it focuses on reallocating funds from the unappropriated surplus balance in the State Fund, General Revenue, to the Department of Commerce, supporting the WorkForce West Virginia initiative. This bill intends to enhance funding for workforce development and related expenses, thereby addressing critical areas such as job creation and economic development.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB5280 appears to be positive, particularly among legislators focused on economic development. Supporters believe that increasing funding for workforce initiatives will yield long-term benefits for the state's economy by training residents and supporting businesses. However, discussions may arise regarding the adequacy of the surplus and the transparency of fund allocation processes, which could lead to debates amongst lawmakers and constituents about budgeting priorities.

Contention

One notable point of contention in discussions around HB5280 may revolve around the appropriateness and timing of utilizing surplus funds. Critics could argue for a more cautious approach to spending, emphasizing the need for sustainable budgeting that does not rely heavily on one-time surpluses. Additionally, concerns about how effectively the funds will be utilized within the Department of Commerce might emerge, particularly regarding accountability and the measuring of outcomes from the workforce programs supported by this appropriation.

Latest WV HB5280 Activity

View All Events: WV 2026 Regular Session HB5280

Companion Bills

WV SB788

Similar To Supplemental appropriation to Department of Commerce, fund 0572

Previously Filed As

WV HB3512

Expiring funds to the unappropriated surplus balance from the Department of Administration, Division of General Services

WV HB3519

Expiring funds to the unappropriated surplus balance of the State Fund, General Revenue

WV HB111

Expiring funds to the unappropriated surplus balance in the State Fund, General Revenue, from the Department Revenue, State Budget Office, PEIA Rainy Day Fund

WV SB789

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Commerce

WV SB607

Expiring funds to unappropriated surplus balance in State Fund from Economic Development Fund

WV HB3357

Supplemental Appropriation - Lottery Surplus - Hope Scholarship

WV HB3353

Supplemental Appropriation - Commerce - iHub

WV SB935

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Homeland Security

WV SB937

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Economic Development

WV HB3510

Supplementing and amending appropriations to the Department of Homeland Security – Office of the Secretary

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB0390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.