West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB873

Introduced
2/9/26  
Refer
2/9/26  
Report Pass
3/9/26  

Caption

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Commerce, fund 0256

Impact

The implications of SB873 are significant for the state’s economic development initiatives. By enhancing funding to the Department of Commerce, the bill is intended to bolster programs aimed at stimulating economic growth and providing support to various sectors within the state. This could potentially lead to job creation and improved services in areas governed by the Division of Economic Development, which plays a crucial role in fostering an environment conducive to business growth and investment.

Summary

Senate Bill 873, introduced by Senators Smith and Woelfel, is a supplemental appropriation bill aimed at amending the appropriations of public moneys from the State Fund, General Revenue, for the fiscal year 2026. The bill seeks to increase funding allocated to the Department of Commerce's Division of Economic Development for expenditure during the fiscal period ending June 30, 2026. This adjustment reflects the availability of an unappropriated balance in the Treasury and aligns with the Governor's executive budget proposal submitted to the Legislature.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally supportive, particularly among proponents of economic development in West Virginia. Stakeholders who favor the bill view the increased funding as a positive step towards enhancing the state’s economic landscape. However, discussions may also include some concerns about the broader implications of budget reallocations and how they align with long-term fiscal policies within the state, though these were not primary points of contention.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on increasing funding, there may be concerns over transparency and accountability regarding how the additional appropriations will be managed. Stakeholders could raise questions about the effectiveness of prior funding levels and ensure that the economic development strategies being implemented yield tangible benefits. Overall, SB873 appears to progress towards enhancing state appropriations for development, yet discussions surrounding the bill could reflect a cautious optimism regarding its execution and potential impacts.

Companion Bills

WV HB5316

Similar To Supplemental Appropriation to the Department of Commerce - Division of Economic Development from the Unappropriated Balance.

Previously Filed As

WV SB937

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Economic Development

WV HB3509

Supplementing and amending appropriations to the Department of Economic Development – Office of the Secretary

WV SB789

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Commerce

WV HB3353

Supplemental Appropriation - Commerce - iHub

WV SB778

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Human Services

WV SB935

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Homeland Security

WV SB774

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Health, WV Birth to Three Fund

WV SB1005

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Education, BOE

WV SB770

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Art, Culture, and History

WV SB766

Supplemental appropriation to Department of Human Services

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.