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Bill

Bill

HB 5044

To create the Rural County Stabilization and Grant Flexibility Act.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roy Cooper and 2 co-sponsors

West Virginia bill would establish grants and flexible funding mechanisms to stabilize rural counties facing fiscal and economic challenges.

To House Finance
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Bill Summary · HB 5044

Legislative bill overview

HB 5044 would establish the Rural County Stabilization and Grant Flexibility Act, which appears designed to provide financial support and increased flexibility for rural counties in West Virginia. The bill would likely authorize grants or stabilization funds while relaxing certain restrictions on how rural counties can allocate or use state funding. The exact mechanisms and funding levels are not detailed in the available bill summary.

Why is this important

Rural counties in West Virginia face unique fiscal challenges including declining populations, limited tax bases, and reduced economic activity in traditional industries like coal. Providing dedicated stabilization funding and grant flexibility could help these counties maintain essential services like education, infrastructure, and public safety while adapting to changing economic conditions. This could affect quality of life and economic development prospects across a significant portion of the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source: Whether the state will appropriate new general revenue funds or redirect existing resources, potentially creating competition with other budget priorities
  • Eligibility criteria: How "rural counties" are defined and whether some counties feel excluded or unfairly treated by the definition
  • Accountability measures: Concern about whether flexible grant provisions include sufficient oversight and reporting requirements to ensure funds are used effectively

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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