The bill passed on March 12, 2026, amends the appropriations of public funds from the State Fund, specifically the Excess Lottery Fund, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. It introduces a new item of appropriation to the State Board of Education, designated as fund 3517, organization 0402, which allocates $12,664,710 from the Excess Lottery Funds to the Hope Scholarship Program. This appropriation is made possible due to an unappropriated surplus balance in the State Treasury, as indicated in the Governor's Executive Budget Document submitted to the Legislature.
The bill emphasizes the availability of these funds for educational purposes, specifically to support the Hope Scholarship Program, which aims to provide financial assistance to students. The legislative action reflects the state's commitment to utilizing surplus lottery revenues to enhance educational opportunities within West Virginia. The bill is effective immediately upon passage, ensuring that the allocated funds can be accessed promptly for the intended educational initiatives.