RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 11 co-sponsors

House Bill 1247 allocates funds for Cossatot Community College's operations, ensuring 204 staff positions and up to 100 temporary hires to support educational services.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

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Overview

House Bill 1247 (HB 1247) is a legislative proposal introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly aimed at making appropriations for personal services and operating expenses for the Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill was introduced on January 27, 2025, and has undergone several legislative actions, including amendments and referrals to various committees.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1247 is to allocate necessary funding for the operational needs of Cossatot Community College, ensuring that the institution can continue to provide educational services and maintain its workforce. The bill seeks to establish a budget that supports both regular and temporary staffing, as well as operational expenses.

Key Provisions

Appropriation of Funds: The bill authorizes the appropriation of funds from the Cossatot Community College Fund for personal services and operational expenses.

Staffing Levels: It establishes a maximum number of regular employees, totaling 204 positions, with specified salary rates for various roles, including administrative, academic, and support staff.

Extra Help Provision: The bill allows for the hiring of up to 100 part-time or temporary employees as needed, with pay rates not exceeding those outlined in the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act.

Salary Structure: The bill details salary rates for various positions, ranging from administrative roles to faculty and support staff, ensuring competitive compensation for employees.

Impact

Cossatot Community College: The bill directly impacts the operations of Cossatot Community College by providing the necessary funding to maintain staff and services, which is crucial for the college's ability to serve its students and community.

Employees: The funding will affect the college's employees, ensuring that salaries are funded and that the institution can hire additional temporary staff as needed.

Students and Community: By supporting the college's operations, the bill indirectly benefits students and the local community by maintaining educational programs and services.

Legislative Timeline

January 27, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to committees.

February 5, 2025: Considered in the Committee of the Whole; recommended to pass.

February 6, 2025: Passed third reading and adopted an emergency clause.

February 11, 2025: Notification that HB 1247 is now Act 40.

February 14, 2025: Reported from JHA as amended, recommending passage on second reading and referral to FIN.

Conclusion

HB 1247 is a critical piece of legislation for the Cossatot Community College, ensuring that it has the financial resources necessary to operate effectively during the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The bill's provisions for staffing and appropriations are essential for maintaining educational services and supporting the college's mission.

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