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2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Genda

House Bill 1397 reallocates $207 million for the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, enhancing public safety through improved forensic capabilities starting July 1, 2025.

First reading: referred to Committee on Roads and Transportation

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Overview

House Bill 1397, now known as Act 96, was introduced on February 4, 2025, during the 95th General Assembly of Arkansas. The primary purpose of this bill is to reappropriate funds for capital improvement projects specifically for the Department of Public Safety, with a focus on the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory.

Key Provisions

Reappropriation of Funds

Amount: The bill reappropriates a total of $207,318,105 from the Development and Enhancement Fund for the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory Facility Project.

Effective Date: The reappropriation will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Disbursement Controls

The bill stipulates that no contracts or obligations related to the projects can exceed the available funds in the State Treasury.

Agencies involved are permitted to accept grants and donations, including federal funds, to supplement state funds for the projects.

Maintenance and General Operations funds cannot be used for the purposes outlined in this act.

Compliance and Legislative Intent

The bill emphasizes compliance with existing state laws regarding purchasing, accounting, and budgetary procedures.

It expresses the intent of the General Assembly that funds disbursed under this act align with the reasons for its adoption, as documented in budget manuals and legislative records.

Emergency Clause

An emergency clause is included, declaring that the act is necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety. This clause ensures that the act will be in full effect from July 1, 2025, to prevent any disruption in essential governmental programs.

Impact

Affected Entities: The primary beneficiary of this bill is the Department of Public Safety, particularly the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, which will receive significant funding for capital improvements.

Public Safety: The improvements funded by this bill are expected to enhance the capabilities of the crime laboratory, potentially leading to better public safety outcomes through improved forensic services.

Legislative Timeline

February 4, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.

February 10, 2025: The bill was considered in the Committee of the Whole, passed, and sent to the Senate.

February 11, 2025: The bill passed the Senate, adopted an emergency clause, and was returned to the House.

February 13, 2025: Notification that HB 1397 is now Act 96.

This summary provides a clear understanding of the intent, provisions, and implications of HB 1397, highlighting its significance for the Department of Public Safety and the broader community.

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