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HB 1612

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - EDUCATIONAL TELEVISION DIVISION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT APPROPRIATION.

2025 Regular Session

Act 336 allocates $8 million to upgrade Arkansas Educational Television Network, enhancing broadcasting quality and accessibility for educational programming statewide.

Notification that HB1612 is now Act 336
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Bill Summary · HB 1612

Summary of House Bill 1612 (Act 336)

Overview

House Bill 1612, now known as Act 336, was introduced on February 27, 2025, during the 95th General Assembly of Arkansas. The bill aims to appropriate funds for capital improvement projects within the Department of Education's Educational Television Division.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1612 is to secure funding for significant upgrades to the Arkansas Educational Television Network (AETN). Specifically, the bill focuses on enhancing broadcasting capabilities through the implementation of the Next Gen TV Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) 3.0 broadcast standard.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriation Amount: The bill appropriates up to $8,000,000 from the Development and Enhancement Fund specifically for the AETN's capital improvement projects.

  • Disbursement Controls:

    • Funds can only be disbursed if they are available in the State Treasury.
    • The Department of Education and related agencies can accept grants and donations, including federal funds, to supplement state funds for the project.
    • The bill stipulates that funds appropriated for maintenance and general operations cannot be used for the purposes outlined in this act.

  • Compliance with Fiscal Laws: The bill mandates strict adherence to state purchasing laws and fiscal control regulations during the disbursement of funds.

  • Legislative Intent: The General Assembly emphasizes that the funds should be used in alignment with the reasons for which the act was adopted, as documented in budget manuals and legislative records.

  • Emergency Clause: An emergency clause is included, making the act effective immediately on July 1, 2025. This is deemed essential for the timely operation of the agency and to prevent any disruption in essential governmental programs.

Impact

The passage of HB 1612 is expected to significantly enhance the broadcasting capabilities of AETN, allowing for improved educational programming and outreach. The funding will facilitate the transition to modern broadcasting standards, which can lead to better quality content and accessibility for viewers across Arkansas.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 27, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 6, 2025: Returned by the committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.
  • March 12, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • March 13, 2025: Passed in the Senate, emergency clause adopted.
  • March 14, 2025: Correctly enrolled and ordered transmitted to the Governor's Office.
  • March 18, 2025: Notification that HB 1612 is now Act 336.

This summary provides a clear understanding of the intent, provisions, and implications of House Bill 1612, highlighting its role in advancing educational television in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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