Bill
HB 1196
House Bill 1196 separates the sheriff and tax collector offices in Montgomery County, enhancing accountability and governance, with elections set for 2026.
Bill Number: HB 1196
Title: Relating to Education
Status: Referred to EDN, JHA, FIN, referral sheet 4
Introduced: January 22, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Career Development, Education, Law Enforcement, Workforce Readiness
House Bill 1196 aims to separate the offices of sheriff and tax collector in Montgomery County, Arkansas. This legislative change is intended to enhance the governance and operational efficiency of these two critical roles within the county. By establishing these as distinct offices, the bill seeks to clarify responsibilities and improve accountability in law enforcement and tax collection.
Separation of Offices:
Effective January 1, 2027, the offices of sheriff and tax collector in Montgomery County will be officially separated.
Election of Officials:
At the 2026 general election, residents of Montgomery County will elect both a sheriff and a tax collector. The newly elected officials will assume their roles on January 1, 2027.
Bond Requirement:
Both the sheriff and tax collector will be required to give a bond for the faithful performance of their respective duties, as mandated by law.
Compensation Structure:
The compensation for both positions will be determined by the Montgomery County Quorum Court, adhering to the minimum and maximum compensation ranges set by the General Assembly. Each official will also have the authority to hire deputies and allocate other resources as prescribed by the Quorum Court.
This bill will primarily affect the governance structure within Montgomery County by:
Clarifying Roles:
By separating the offices, the bill aims to delineate the responsibilities of law enforcement and tax collection, potentially leading to more focused and effective administration in both areas.
Electoral Changes:
The bill will necessitate changes in the electoral process for Montgomery County, as voters will have the opportunity to elect two separate officials for these critical roles in the upcoming 2026 general election.
Financial Implications:
The bill outlines a framework for compensation that will impact the county's budget and financial planning, as the Quorum Court will need to allocate funds for the salaries and operational needs of the newly separated offices.
This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1196, detailing its purpose, key provisions, potential impacts, and procedural history. The separation of the sheriff and tax collector offices is a significant step towards improving governance in Montgomery County.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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