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HB 1034

CONCEALED CARRY-REPEAL

104th Regular Session Introduced by John Cabello

House Bill 1034 allocates $250 million to build a new state behavioral health hospital in Arkansas, enhancing mental health services for residents in need.

Referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1034

Summary of House Bill 1034

Overview

Bill Number: HB 1034
Title: Relating to Public Employment Cost Items
Status: Act 037, effective May 13, 2025
Introduced: November 20, 2024
Classification: Appropriations Bill
Subject: Appropriations for Public Employment Cost Items

House Bill 1034 aims to allocate funds for the construction of an additional state behavioral health hospital in Arkansas, addressing the growing need for mental health services within the state.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1034 is to enhance the capacity of the Department of Human Services (DHS) in providing mental health services by constructing a new state behavioral health hospital. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve mental health care accessibility and quality for Arkansas residents.

Key Provisions

  1. Appropriation of Funds:

    • The bill appropriates up to $250,000,000 to the DHS, specifically for the construction of the new state behavioral health hospital.
    • The funds will be drawn from the cash fund in the State Treasury, as determined by the Chief Fiscal Officer of the State.

  2. Funding Transfer:

    • Upon the bill's effective date, a transfer of $250 million will occur from the General Revenue Allotment Reserve Fund to the designated cash fund for the project.

  3. Timeline:

    • The appropriations are effective from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

  4. Amendments to Existing Laws:

    • The bill includes amendments to Arkansas Code regarding the responsibilities of prosecuting attorneys in mental health hearings and the consolidation of state mental health facilities under the DHS.

  5. Disbursement Controls:

    • The bill establishes strict controls on the disbursement of funds, ensuring that no contracts or obligations exceed the available funds and that all applicable state fiscal control laws are followed.

  6. Emergency Clause:

    • An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately on July 1, 2025, to ensure timely implementation for the benefit of public health and safety.

Impact

  • Target Population: The bill primarily affects individuals requiring mental health services in Arkansas, as well as the professionals and facilities involved in providing these services.
  • State Agencies: The DHS will be directly impacted, as it will oversee the construction and operation of the new hospital.
  • Community Health: The establishment of an additional behavioral health hospital is expected to alleviate pressure on existing facilities, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall mental health care system in Arkansas.

Legislative Actions

  • The bill underwent several readings, amendments, and committee reviews before being passed and signed into law on May 13, 2025. Key actions include:
    • Amendment No. 1 was adopted on January 15, 2025, adding a cosponsor.
    • The bill was reported correctly engrossed and passed through various legislative stages, including a conference committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 1034 represents a significant investment in Arkansas's mental health infrastructure, aiming to improve access to care and support for individuals in need. The funding and provisions outlined in this bill are crucial for addressing the state's behavioral health challenges.

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

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