West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB831

Introduced
2/9/26  
Refer
2/9/26  
Report Pass
2/13/26  
Engrossed
2/18/26  
Refer
2/19/26  
Refer
2/19/26  
Enrolled
3/12/26  

Caption

Supplemental Appropriation to Department of Human Services, fund 8794

Impact

The bill is expected to have a direct impact on state laws concerning funding and the operational capabilities of mental health services in West Virginia. By supplementing the existing budget with federal funds, the bill aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of mental health care, which is increasingly seen as a critical area needing attention amid growing awareness of mental health issues. This financial support may also enable the Department of Human Services to implement new programs or expand existing ones, signifying a broader commitment to mental health at the state level.

Summary

Senate Bill 831 is a supplemental appropriation bill aimed at allocating federal funds to the Department of Human Services, specifically targeted towards Community Mental Health Services for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill proposes to decrease existing appropriations in one area while increasing them in another, thus reallocating the funds to more effectively address the needs of the community mental health services sector. The purpose of this bill is to ensure that available federal resources are utilized promptly and effectively to support these essential services.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 831 appears to be generally positive, especially among lawmakers who recognize the importance of mental health funding. The legislative discussion surrounding the bill showcased bipartisan support as many members acknowledged the need for robust mental health services and the timely appropriation of these funds. However, while the overall outlook is favorable, some concerns were raised regarding the sustainable use of appropriated funds and the long-term planning necessary to address ongoing mental health challenges.

Contention

A notable point of contention related to SB 831 is the balance between immediate funding needs and long-term financial planning for mental health services. Some legislators emphasized the necessity of ensuring that these supplemental funds lead to lasting improvements in service delivery rather than just temporary fixes. The debate also touched on the governance of these appropriated funds and oversight to ensure they are used effectively and reach the intended recipients, which is vital for bolstering community confidence in the state's mental health initiatives.

Companion Bills

WV HB5293

Similar To Supplemental Appropriation to the Department of Human Services - Community Mental Health Services from Federal Block Grants.

Previously Filed As

WV SB788

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Human Services

WV SB778

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Human Services

WV SB766

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Human Services

WV SB1001

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Health and Department of Human Services

WV HB3352

Supplemental Appropriation - Human Services - Medicaid

WV SB616

Supplementary appropriation of public moneys to DHS, Medical State Share Fund

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 HB101

Supplementing and amending appropriations to the Department of Health and Department of Human Services

WV HB3358

Supplemental Appropriation FBGR DHHR

WV HB3370

Supplemental Appropriation FEDA HMSV Summer EBT

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.