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HB 1089

RECYCLING-BEVERAGE CONTAINER

104th Regular Session Introduced by Anne Stava and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1089 allocates $7.3 million to the Arkansas Waterways Commission for operations and grants, boosting port development and improving state waterways.

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Bill Summary · HB 1089

Summary of House Bill 1089: Appropriation for the Arkansas Waterways Commission

Bill Number: HB 1089
Introduced: January 13, 2025
Status: Passed First Reading and subsequently enacted as Act 618 on April 14, 2025
Subject: Department of Commerce - Arkansas Waterways Commission
Fiscal Year: 2025-2026

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1089 aims to provide necessary funding for the Arkansas Waterways Commission within the Department of Commerce for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill is designed to ensure the effective operation of the commission, which is responsible for overseeing the development and maintenance of Arkansas's waterways.

Key Provisions

Appropriations

The bill outlines several appropriations for various operational needs:

  1. Regular Salaries and Operations:

    • Total appropriation: $335,324
    • Breakdown:
      • Regular Salaries: $171,883
      • Personal Services Matching: $63,856
      • Maintenance & General Operations: $88,879
      • Operational Expenses: $8,151
      • Other operational costs: $0

  2. Waterway Development Grant Program:

    • Total appropriation: $5,000,000
    • Purpose: Grants to port authorities and intermodal authorities for port development projects.

  3. Arkansas River Navigation System Fund:

    • Total appropriation: $2,000,000
    • Purpose: Development, improvement, and expansion of river transportation resources.

Employee Positions

The bill establishes the following maximum number of employees for the Arkansas Waterways Commission for the fiscal year 2025-2026:
- Director of Waterways Commission (Grade GS11)
- Business Operations Manager (Grade GS08)
- Research Project Analyst (Grade GS06) - 3 positions

Impact

Who Will Be Affected

  • Department of Commerce: The funding will directly support the operations of the Arkansas Waterways Commission.
  • Port Authorities and Intermodal Authorities: These entities will benefit from the grant program aimed at enhancing port development.
  • General Public: Improved waterways and transportation resources are expected to enhance economic activities and public safety.

Procedural Aspects

  • Emergency Clause: The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately on July 1, 2025, to ensure timely funding for essential operations.
  • Legislative Actions: The bill underwent several readings and amendments before passing both the House and Senate, demonstrating a collaborative legislative process.

Conclusion

House Bill 1089 is a critical piece of legislation that secures funding for the Arkansas Waterways Commission, facilitating the maintenance and development of the state's waterways. By providing necessary financial resources, the bill aims to enhance the operational capacity of the commission and support related infrastructure projects, ultimately benefiting the state's economy and public welfare.

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

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