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SB 334

City of Trion; independent school district ad valorem taxes for educational purposes; provide a homestead exemption

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Colton Moore

SB 334 allocates $5 million for essential maintenance and improvements to Arkansas's educational facilities, enhancing conditions for students and educators statewide.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · SB 334

Summary of SB 334 - Capital Improvement Appropriation for the Department of Education

Bill Number: SB 334
Title: An Act for the Department of Education - Division of Elementary and Secondary Education Capital Improvement Appropriation
Status: Now Act 331
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 334 aims to provide funding for capital improvement projects within the Arkansas Department of Education, specifically targeting the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. The bill is designed to ensure that essential maintenance, renovations, and improvements are made to the facilities owned by the Department, thereby enhancing the operational capacity of educational services in the state.

Key Provisions

  1. Appropriation of Funds:

    • The bill appropriates a total of $5,000,000 from the Educational Buildings Maintenance Fund for various capital improvement projects. This funding will cover:
      • Building and grounds maintenance
      • Equipment maintenance contracts
      • Insurance and janitorial services
      • Major maintenance costs
      • Renovations and repairs for four buildings located in the Capitol Complex

  2. Disbursement Controls:

    • The bill establishes strict controls over the disbursement of funds, ensuring that:
      • No contracts or obligations exceeding available State Treasury funds may be incurred.
      • Institutions can accept grants and donations to supplement state funds for the projects.
      • Compliance with state purchasing laws and fiscal control regulations is mandatory.

  3. Legislative Intent:

    • The General Assembly emphasizes that funds disbursed under this act must align with the stated purposes outlined in agency requests and legislative recommendations.

  4. Emergency Clause:

    • An emergency clause is included, declaring the necessity for the act to take effect on July 1, 2025. This is to prevent any disruption in the operation of the Department of Education due to funding delays.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the facilities managed by the Arkansas Department of Education, which serve as essential infrastructure for elementary and secondary education.
    • Additionally, students, educators, and staff who utilize these facilities will benefit from improved conditions and resources.

  • Timeline:

    • The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has undergone several legislative actions, including:
    • Passed by the Senate and House on March 10, 2025
    • Delivered to the Governor on March 13, 2025
    • Officially became Act 331 on March 18, 2025

Conclusion

SB 334 represents a significant investment in the infrastructure of Arkansas's educational system, aiming to enhance the quality and safety of educational environments. By providing necessary funding for maintenance and improvements, the bill seeks to ensure that educational facilities can adequately support the needs of students and educators across the state.

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

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