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HB 1317

RELATING TO WORKFORCE HOUSING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Luke Evslin and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1317 increases penalties for fraud against state-supported retirement systems, protecting benefits for members and enhancing law enforcement's ability to prosecute offenders.

Reported from HSG (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 138) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to WAL.
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Bill Summary · HB 1317

Summary of House Bill 1317: Relating to Workforce Housing

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1317 aims to amend existing laws concerning fraud against government entities, specifically targeting fraud against state-supported retirement systems. The bill seeks to enhance penalties for individuals who make false statements or falsify records in an attempt to defraud these systems. The overarching goal is to protect the integrity of state-supported retirement benefits and deter fraudulent activities that could harm beneficiaries.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant amendments to the Arkansas Code, including:

  1. Fraud Definition Expansion:

    • The bill expands the definition of fraud to include actions against state-supported retirement systems, such as the Arkansas Public Employees' Retirement System and the Arkansas Judicial Retirement System.

  2. Increased Penalties:

    • Individuals found guilty of making material false statements or falsifying records with the intent to defraud a retirement system will face increased penalties:
      • Class D Felony: For most violations related to state-supported retirement systems.
      • Class A Misdemeanor: Initially proposed for certain violations, but amended to align with the Class D felony classification.

  3. Referral Process:

    • The bill establishes a clear referral process for violations:
      • The Director of the State Department for Social Security Administration Disability Determination and the Executive Director of state-supported retirement systems are authorized to refer cases to the Attorney General or local prosecuting attorneys for further investigation and prosecution.

  4. Emergency Clause:

    • An emergency clause is included, allowing the bill to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or if not vetoed within the specified timeframe. This urgency is justified by the need to protect retirement system assets and maintain public trust.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals: Those who may attempt to defraud state-supported retirement systems will face stricter penalties.
  • State-Supported Retirement Systems: The bill aims to safeguard these systems from fraudulent claims, thereby protecting the benefits of legitimate members and retirees.
  • Law Enforcement: Prosecuting attorneys and the Attorney General will have enhanced authority to act against fraud cases.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Reported from HSG: February 4, 2025
  • Passed Second Reading: February 6, 2025
  • Emergency Clause Adopted: February 6, 2025
  • Passed Third Reading: February 13, 2025
  • Notification of Act: February 18, 2025 (now Act 112)

Conclusion

House Bill 1317 represents a significant legislative effort to combat fraud against state-supported retirement systems in Arkansas. By increasing penalties and establishing a clear referral process for violations, the bill aims to protect the integrity of these systems and ensure that benefits are preserved for those entitled to them. The emergency clause underscores the urgency of these reforms in safeguarding public resources.

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

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