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HB 1544

AN ACT TO MAKE AN APPROPRIATION FOR STATE TURNBACK FOR COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES BY THE OFFICE OF THE TREASURER OF STATE SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION.

2025 Regular Session

Act 299 allocates $25 million in property tax relief funds to Arkansas counties and municipalities, enhancing local services and easing financial pressures.

Notification that HB1544 is now Act 299
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Bill Summary · HB 1544

Summary of House Bill 1544 (Act 299)

Overview

House Bill 1544, now known as Act 299, was introduced on February 20, 2025, during the 95th General Assembly of Arkansas. The bill aims to make a supplemental appropriation for state turnback funds designated for counties and municipalities, managed by the Office of the Treasurer of State.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1544 is to provide additional financial resources to local governments in Arkansas through a property tax relief initiative. This appropriation is intended to supplement existing funds allocated by Act 140 of 2024, thereby enhancing the financial support available to counties and municipalities.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriation Amount: The bill appropriates $25,000,000 from the Property Tax Relief Trust Fund specifically for distribution to counties as part of a statewide property tax reduction initiative.
  • Compliance with Laws: The disbursement of these funds must adhere to existing fiscal control laws, including the State Procurement Law and the General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law.
  • Legislative Intent: The General Assembly emphasizes that the funds should be utilized in accordance with the reasons outlined in the budget manuals and legislative recommendations related to the bill's passage.
  • Emergency Clause: An emergency clause is included, stating that the funds are necessary for the continuation of essential governmental services. This clause allows the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, rather than following the standard legislative timeline.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the counties and municipalities in Arkansas, which will receive additional funding to support local services and property tax relief efforts.
  • Financial Support: The supplemental appropriation is expected to alleviate some financial pressures on local governments, enabling them to maintain or enhance public services.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 20, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • February 25, 2025: Amendment No. 1 adopted to correct a typographical error in the title.
  • March 5, 2025: The bill passed both the House and Senate, with the emergency clause adopted.
  • March 6, 2025: The bill was correctly enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office.
  • March 12, 2025: Notification that HB 1544 is now Act 299.

Conclusion

House Bill 1544 represents a significant legislative effort to provide additional financial support to local governments in Arkansas through a targeted property tax relief initiative. The swift passage and emergency provisions underscore the urgency of addressing the funding needs of counties and municipalities.

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

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