West Virginia Governor Vetoes Foster Care Bills After Tax Cuts

Morrisey vetoed a dozen bills just days after signing a 5% income tax cut.

“West Virginia governor vetoes help for neglected and foster kids after approving tax cuts Gov”

Associated Press

Six of the vetoes were focused on child protection and foster care.

Associated Press

HB 4730 would have supported young people aging out of foster care.

The bill passed with nearly unanimous approval in both chambers.

Morrisey cited uncontrollable cost drivers and a $5 million first-year cost.

Delegate Burkhammer vowed to keep working despite the veto.

HB 4393 sought to expand prevention services before crisis.

Morrisey called linking economic need to foster care risk overly intrusive.

WFXRtv

Senate Bill 744 would have strengthened CPS oversight.

Delegate Pushkin called the veto particularly troubling.

The approach reflects a trade-off between tax cuts and social services.

Morrisey celebrated tax relief that will forgo $230 million annually.

He balked at a $5 million investment in foster care transitions.

The state was failing to spend federal money meant to help former foster kids.

The Department of Human Services estimated a full cost of $11 million.

Advocates warn the costs of neglect will only rise.