RELATING TO EMERGENCY AEROMEDICAL SERVICES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

House Bill 1107 allocates $194.5 million to the Department of Human Services for 2025-2026, enhancing emergency services and support for vulnerable families.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#appropriation($) #doh #emergencyaeromedicalservices

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1107 (HB 1107) aims to make appropriations for personal services and operating expenses for the Department of Human Services (DHS), specifically the Division of County Operations, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill is designed to ensure that the DHS has the necessary funding to operate effectively, particularly in the context of emergency aeromedical services.

Key Provisions

Appropriations: The bill outlines a total appropriation of $194,544,939 for the DHS - Division of County Operations for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This includes:

Regular Salaries: $90,009,561
Extra Help: $503,937
Personal Services Matching: $36,913,982
Overtime: $130,000
Maintenance & General Operations: $27,469,893
Professional Fees: $19,037,338
Data Processing Services: $20,356,228

Grants: The bill also allocates funds for various grants, including:

TANF Block Grant: $57,200,764
Community Service Block Grant: $13,943,475
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): $5,378,754
Hunger Coalition Grants and Aid: $995,113

Summer EBT Program: An amendment to the bill includes an appropriation of $50,555,398 for the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, aimed at providing assistance during the summer months.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Department of Human Services: The DHS will receive the appropriated funds to support its operations and services.
- Individuals and Families: The funding will directly impact individuals and families who rely on services provided by the DHS, including those receiving TANF, SNAP, and other assistance programs.
- Healthcare Providers: The bill supports the operational capacity of emergency aeromedical services, which may involve healthcare providers and emergency response teams.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: January 13, 2025

Status: The bill has passed its first reading and has been reported correctly engrossed as of February 27, 2025.

Legislative Actions: The bill has undergone several readings and amendments, with the emergency clause adopted on April 10, 2025. It has been transmitted to the Governor's Office for final approval.

Conclusion

HB 1107 is a significant legislative measure that ensures the continued operation and funding of essential services provided by the Department of Human Services in Arkansas. By appropriating necessary funds for personal services, operating expenses, and various assistance programs, the bill aims to enhance the state's capacity to respond to emergency needs and support vulnerable populations.

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