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New brief examines Governor's proposed budget for FY 2011

Policy BriefFederal Recovery Act funding will prevent deep cuts in the state budget next year, as it has done this year. However, future budget shortfalls are on the horizon for West Virginia.  This brief by the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy takes a close look at the Governor's proposed budget for FY 2011 and explores options to improve state budget stability and prevent cuts in needed public services.    Read

State health programs cut in Governor's budget

While the Recovery Act continues to bolster Medicaid funding, other health programs fared less well in the Governor's budget. According to a new brief by the Center on Budget and Policy, several small programs (including the West Virginia Center for End of Life) were zeroed out, while others (including the Tobacco Education Program) received substantial cuts.  Read

New Report Looks at Impact of the Great Recession on West Virginia Workers and Families

State of Working West VirginiaAfter dodging the early months of the national recession, West Virginia workers experienced its full force during 2009, according to a new report by the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy. In addition to information on how workers are faring in the Mountain State, the report outlines policy options that would further economic recovery.  Read report. 
Read press release.  Pubic News Service radio story.

Federal Medicaid expansion would boost state's health and economy

The health reform bill passed by the House of Representatives would expand Medicaid to 150 percent of the the federal poverty level, cover more than 100,000 West Virginians who are currently uninsured, and bring in an additional $400-$500 million per year in federal funds. Find out more in this month's Health Express. 

CHIP reauthorization provides opportunities to expand coverage

When Congress reauthorized the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in 2009. it provided increased funding and more flexibility to states to insure additional children. A new policy brief outlines how West Virginia can take advantage of the new provisions.  Read

Green Jobs forum draws diverse perspectives and ideas

Good Jobs/Green Jobs LogoNearly a hundred entrepreneurs, educators, environmentalists, labor leaders and policymakers gathered on October 18 for a three-hour forum on advancing green jobs in W. Va. The event, sponsored by the Center on Budget and Policy, Katalyst, and BuildGreen WV, was part of the 2009 Create WV Conference. 

Good Jobs, Green Jobs Forum: Presenter Information and websites (PDF)
View video highlights
WSAZ TV: Create WV Conference underway in Huntington
WV News Service: College trains workers for green jobs in the Ohio Valley

Taxing West Virginia’s Coal Reserves: A Primer

Taxing Coal ReservesThis new report describes the history and current methods of taxing one of the state’s most valuable resources. It is intended as a useful reference for county officials, coal companies, landowners, and local citizens. Morgantown-based Downstream Strategies prepared the report, in collaboration with the WV Center on Budget and Policy. 
| Read Report (PDF) | Read Press Release (PDF)