Summary of House Bill 1163 (Act 1005)
Overview
House Bill 1163, now known as Act 1005, is a legislative measure passed by the Arkansas General Assembly that appropriates funds for the Department of Labor and Licensing for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill focuses on providing financial resources for various boards and commissions under the Department, including the Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy and the State Board of Appraisers, Abstracters, and Home Inspectors.
Purpose
The primary intent of HB 1163 is to ensure that the Department of Labor and Licensing has the necessary funding to cover personal services and operating expenses for its boards and commissions during the 2025-2026 fiscal year. This includes salaries for staff, operational costs, and other related expenses.
Key Provisions
The bill includes several important sections detailing appropriations for different boards:
1. Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy
- Total Appropriation: $1,076,019
- Regular Salaries: Includes positions such as Executive Director, Investigator, and Administrative Specialist.
- Operating Expenses: Covers operational costs, conference and travel expenses, professional fees, and personal services matching.
2. State Board of Appraisers, Abstracters, and Home Inspectors
- Total Appropriation: Multiple funds with varying amounts:
- Abstracters Board Fund: $30,000
- Arkansas Home Inspectors Registration Board Fund: $112,182
- Cash Fund: $557,522
- Federal Programs: $116,500
- Regular Salaries: Positions include Executive Director and Business Operations Manager.
3. State Athletic Commission
- Total Appropriation: Specific amounts for salaries and operational expenses are included, ensuring the commission can function effectively.
Impact
The passage of HB 1163 affects:
- Employees: It establishes maximum employee counts and salary rates for various positions within the Department of Labor and Licensing.
- Boards and Commissions: Ensures that essential regulatory bodies have the funding necessary to operate, which is crucial for maintaining standards in public accountancy, appraisals, and home inspections.
- Public Services: By funding these boards, the bill indirectly supports the services they provide to the public, including licensing and regulatory oversight.
Procedural Timeline
- Introduced: January 16, 2025
- Passed: April 15, 2025, with an emergency clause adopted to expedite implementation.
- Enrolled: April 16, 2025, and transmitted to the Governor's Office.
- Final Status: Became Act 1005 on April 22, 2025.
Conclusion
House Bill 1163 (Act 1005) is a critical piece of legislation that secures funding for the Department of Labor and Licensing in Arkansas, ensuring that essential boards and commissions can continue to operate effectively and serve the public interest in the upcoming fiscal year.