CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia House of Delegates moved quickly to provide emergency funding for financially distressed school districts in the state, passing House Bill 45-74 Monday. Delegates suspended rules to pass it and House Bill 45-75 which authorized $8 million dollars for the proposed fund.
The West Virginia State Senate will now take up proposed emergency legislation aimed at helping financially distressed school districts, including Hancock County Schools, after quick action by the House of Delegates. Hancock County Schools is currently facing a reported $5 million cash deficit in its general fund.
In the House debate over the Hancock County emergency funding bills, House Minority Leader Sean Hornbuckle, D-Cabell, expressed some skepticism about the proposed legislation — urging caution and a closer look at broader financial pressures facing the state’s school systems even as he supported passage. As written, only Hancock County Schools would currently qualify for assistance.
The West Virginia Department of Education has indicated it is monitoring a total of 10 school districts statewide with significant financial challenges.
