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Bill Summary · HB 1167

Summary of House Bill 1167

Bill Number: HB 1167
Title: Making an Emergency Appropriation to the Department of Transportation
Introduced: January 16, 2025
Status: Conference Committee Meeting reconvenes on April 25, 2025, at 11:30 AM in Conference Room 329.
Classification: Bill
Subject: Department of Transportation, Emergency Appropriation, Motor Carrier Law, State Highway Fund

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1167 aims to address urgent funding needs within the Arkansas Department of Transportation (DOT) by making an emergency appropriation. This bill is designed to ensure that the DOT can continue its operations effectively, particularly in light of pressing infrastructure and transportation requirements.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant provisions:

  1. Emergency Appropriation:

    • Allocates necessary funds to the Arkansas Department of Transportation to support ongoing projects and maintenance of state highways.
    • The specific dollar amount for the appropriation is not detailed in the provided information but is critical for the DOT's operational continuity.

  2. Modification of Signature Authority:

    • The bill modifies the signature authority for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and Physician Assistants (PAs).
    • It allows these healthcare professionals to fulfill signature requirements for various documents that previously required a physician's signature, including:
      • Parking permits and placards from the Office of Motor Vehicle.
      • Certifications for disability and sports physicals.
      • Authorizations for durable medical equipment, including diabetic shoes and shoe inserts.

  3. Clarification of Durable Medical Equipment:

    • The bill clarifies that durable medical equipment encompasses diabetic shoes and shoe inserts, which are essential for patients with diabetes to prevent foot complications.

Affected Parties

  • Arkansas Department of Transportation: The primary beneficiary of the emergency appropriation, which will enable the continuation of vital transportation projects.
  • Healthcare Providers: APRNs and PAs will gain expanded authority to sign necessary documents, streamlining processes for patients requiring medical equipment and certifications.
  • Patients with Diabetes: The inclusion of diabetic shoes and inserts as durable medical equipment will improve access to necessary healthcare resources for managing their condition.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has undergone multiple readings and amendments in both the House and Senate, with significant actions including:
    • Passed the third reading in the House on February 19, 2025.
    • Amended and passed in the Senate on March 31, 2025.
    • Currently in the conference committee stage to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions.
  • The next scheduled meeting for the conference committee is on April 25, 2025, indicating ongoing discussions regarding the bill's final form.

Conclusion

House Bill 1167 represents a critical legislative effort to secure funding for the Arkansas Department of Transportation while also enhancing the operational capabilities of healthcare providers in the state. By clarifying the authority of APRNs and PAs and addressing the needs of diabetic patients, the bill aims to improve both transportation infrastructure and healthcare delivery in Arkansas.

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

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