Supplemental Appropriation to Section 8. Awards for Claims Against the State.

HB 5304 increases funding for payments to individuals and entities filing claims against the West Virginia state government. It amends Section 8 of the 2026 state budget (HB 2026) by raising the total appropriation from $864,750 to $2,314,750, adding $1,100,000 from general revenue funds and $250,000 from special revenue funds to the existing $964,750 from state road funds. This adjustment addresses increased claim volumes resulting from prior legislation (HB 3152 and HB 3157) that expedited claim processing. The bill directly affects claimants who have filed lawsuits against the state seeking compensation. It does not change eligibility rules but ensures sufficient funds are available for payments during fiscal year 2026.