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HB 1725

INC TX-LOCAL MEDIA

104th Regular Session Introduced by Amy Elik

HB 1725 aimed to ensure Arkansas sheriffs meet training standards for salary determination, promoting accountability and competency in law enforcement leadership.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1725

Summary of House Bill 1725

Bill Number: HB 1725
Title: To Amend the Law Concerning the Office of Sheriff; and to Amend the Law Concerning Compensation for the Office of Sheriff
Status: Died in House at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: March 10, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1725 aimed to amend existing laws related to the office of sheriff in Arkansas, specifically focusing on the compensation structure for sheriffs and the requirements for their training and experience. The bill sought to ensure that sheriffs meet certain qualifications before determining their salary, thereby promoting accountability and competency within the office.

Key Provisions

The bill included several significant amendments to the Arkansas Code:

  1. Compensation Structure:

    • A quorum court would determine the annual salary of the sheriff through an ordinance, as outlined in § 14-14-1204.
    • If a newly elected or appointed sheriff lacks the required training or experience, their salary would be set at the minimum level specified in § 14-14-1204.

  2. Documentation Requirements:

    • Newly elected or appointed sheriffs must file documentation with the county clerk within ten days of their election or appointment, proving compliance with training and certification requirements set by the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy.
    • The documentation must confirm that the individual is eligible to serve as a law enforcement officer or lacks the required training or experience.
    • If a sheriff later meets the training requirements, they can submit updated documentation to potentially adjust their salary.

  3. Effective Date:

    • The provisions of this act would take effect on December 31, 2026.

Impact

The bill was designed to affect:
- Sheriffs: Ensuring that only qualified individuals hold the position and receive appropriate compensation based on their qualifications.
- Quorum Courts: Empowering them to set salaries based on documented qualifications, thereby increasing their role in overseeing the sheriff's office.
- County Clerks: Tasked with managing the documentation process and ensuring compliance with the new requirements.

Legislative Actions

  • The bill underwent several readings and motions in both the House and Senate.
  • It was initially passed by the House but faced multiple challenges in the Senate, including failed motions to expunge votes and ultimately did not pass.
  • The bill officially died in the House on May 5, 2025, at the Sine Die adjournment.

In summary, HB 1725 sought to enhance the qualifications and compensation framework for sheriffs in Arkansas, although it ultimately did not advance through the legislative process.

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

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