The Senate passed its version of the budget bill on Wednesday, amending it into House’s budget bill, setting the stage for a compromise between the two bodies in the final days of the 2025 legislative session.
The Senate version sets the fiscal year 2026 general budget at $5.321 billion, which was about a million less than Governor Morrisey’s $5.322 billion general revenue budget proposal.
While the overall budget amounts are similar, there are some differences in the specific priorities.
The Senate budget includes a $36 million allocation to a personal income tax reduction reserve fund, $50 million in spending if the year ends with a surplus on an economic development loan program and $50 million in potential surplus for roads.
UPDATE:
The Senate reconvened just after 6 p.m. to complete the remainder of its calendar and receive House messages and committee reports.
The body concurred in the House amendments and completed action on six bills this evening. They are as follows:
Senate Bill 257 provides protection for property owner when someone visiting a private cemetery causes damage to the property.
Senate Bill 270 declares the sale and manufacture of firearms essential business during a declared emergency.
Senate Bill 464 creates a license plate for recipients of the Medal of Valor.
Senate Bill 537 establishes the West Virginia Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program.
Senate Bill 627 removes the prohibition against leasing state-owned pore spaces underlying lands designated as state parks.
House Bill 2397 prevents immediate family members from acting in a fiduciary capacity for the same governmental authority.
These bills now head to the Governor to await his signature.
The Senate is adjourned until tomorrow, April 10, at 10 a.m.
Senate Judiciary began its meeting at 8:15 p.m.
