HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 120

(By Delegates Howell, Arvon, Border-Sheppard, Cadle, Caputo, Eldridge, Ferro, Hamrick, Ihle, Kessinger, Marcum, McGeehan, Moffatt, Morgan, Nelson, J., Phillips, R., Smith, P., Smith, R., Sponaugle, Stansbury, and Zatezalo)

[Originating in the Committee on Government Organization]

[March 9, 2015]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance authorize a study on the James “Tiger” Morton catastrophic illness fund.

            WHEREAS, The James “Tiger” Morton catastrophic illness fund provides a source of economic assistance to West Virginia citizens dealing with catastrophic illnesses; and

            WHEREAS, The James “Tiger” Morton catastrophic illness fund has assisted numerous West Virginia citizens avoid financial hardship by providing economic assistance during times of need; and

            WHEREAS, Budget appropriations have been drastically reduced over the last several years; and

            WHEREAS, In order to offset potential reductions in appropriations for the James “Tiger” Morton catastrophic illness fund, it has become necessary to research alternative funding sources; and

            WHEREAS, Tax and other incentives may encourage charitable giving by individuals and corporations; and

            WHEREAS, The Legislature is committed to evaluating appropriate incentives and alternative funding sources for the James “Tiger” Morton catastrophic illness fund; therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

            That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the James “Tiger” Morton catastrophic illness fund; and, be it

            Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2016, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

            Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study and to prepare and draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.