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SB 566

PROVIDE FOR FUNDING FOR THE EXPANSION, IMPROVEMENT, OR CONSTRUCTION OF STATE AND COUNTY CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES; AND TO ADDRESS PRISON OVERCROWDING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan King

Senate Bill 566 aimed to allocate $250 million for expanding and improving correctional facilities in Arkansas, addressing overcrowding and enhancing inmate conditions.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SB 566

Summary of Senate Bill 566

Bill Number: SB 566
Title: Provide for Funding for the Expansion, Improvement, or Construction of State and County Correctional Facilities; and to Address Prison Overcrowding
Status: Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: March 26, 2025
Sponsor: Senator B. King

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 566 aimed to address the critical issue of prison overcrowding in Arkansas by providing substantial funding for the expansion, improvement, and construction of state and county correctional facilities. The bill sought to enhance the capacity and conditions of correctional institutions to better serve the needs of the state’s criminal justice system.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed the following key provisions:

  1. Funding Allocation:

    • A transfer of $250 million from the General Revenue Allotment Reserve Fund to a designated cash fund for the Department of Corrections.

  2. Use of Funds:

    • The allocated funds were intended for:
      • Construction and expansion of new and existing correctional facilities.
      • Development of facilities specifically designated for mental health services.
      • Grants to counties for:
      • Construction-related costs for improvements and expansions of county jails.
      • New county jail construction expenses.
      • Payment of principal on existing county jail debts.

Impact

The proposed legislation would have had a significant impact on:

  • State and County Correctional Facilities: By providing necessary funds for construction and improvements, the bill aimed to alleviate overcrowding and enhance the living conditions for inmates.
  • Counties: Local governments would have benefited from grants to support jail improvements and expansions, potentially reducing the burden on county resources.
  • Mental Health Services: The inclusion of mental health facilities within the correctional system aimed to address the needs of inmates requiring mental health support.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 26, 2025: Bill filed.
  • March 31, 2025: Read for the first time, rules suspended, read a second time, and referred to the Judiciary Committee in the Senate.
  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress to a vote or further consideration.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 566 represented a significant effort to tackle the pressing issue of prison overcrowding in Arkansas through substantial funding and support for correctional facilities. Despite its potential benefits, the bill ultimately did not advance through the legislative process.

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

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