RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE ORDERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

HB 1128 allocates $47,220 for the Arkansas Legislative Audit, allowing hiring of 10 temporary staff to ensure uninterrupted operations in fiscal year 2024-2025.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

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Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1128 (HB 1128) aims to provide supplemental appropriations for the Arkansas Legislative Audit of the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The bill is designed to ensure that the committee has the necessary funding to continue its operations and fulfill its responsibilities effectively.

Key Provisions

Supplemental Appropriation: The bill appropriates a total of $47,220 for personal services and operating expenses related to the Arkansas Legislative Audit.

Extra Help: Authorization for up to 10 part-time or temporary employees to assist with operations, with pay rates not exceeding those established by the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act.
Operating Expenses: The appropriated funds will cover various operational costs for the committee, ensuring it can maintain essential services.

Compliance with Laws: The disbursement of funds is subject to compliance with existing state laws, including the State Procurement Law and other fiscal control regulations.

Legislative Intent: The bill emphasizes that the appropriations are intended to align with the needs expressed in agency requests and recommendations from the Department of Finance and Administration.

Emergency Clause: An emergency clause is included, allowing the bill to take effect immediately upon passage. This is justified by the need for timely funding to prevent disruption of essential governmental services.

Affected Entities

Arkansas Legislative Audit of the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee: The primary beneficiary of this bill, which will receive the necessary funds to continue its operations.

State Employees: The bill allows for the hiring of temporary staff, which may impact employment opportunities within the state.

Procedural Timeline

Introduced: January 15, 2025

Passed First Reading: January 23, 2025

Committee Review: Received a "Do Pass" recommendation on February 4, 2025.

Passed by House and Senate: The bill was read and passed multiple times in both chambers, with the emergency clause adopted on February 5, 2025.

Final Action: The bill was notified as Act 48 on February 11, 2025, indicating its successful passage and enactment.

Conclusion

HB 1128 is a critical piece of legislation that ensures the Arkansas Legislative Audit of the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee has the necessary financial resources to operate effectively during the fiscal year 2024-2025. The inclusion of an emergency clause highlights the urgency of the funding, aiming to prevent any disruption in essential governmental services.

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