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HB 1343

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING BENEFITS UNDER THE ARKANSAS JUDICIAL RETIREMENT SYSTEM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Dotson and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1343 aimed to update retirement benefits for Arkansas judges, ensuring competitive compensation, but it died in committee, leaving judicial benefits unchanged.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1343

Summary of House Bill 1343

Bill Number: HB 1343
Title: To Amend the Law Concerning Benefits Under the Arkansas Judicial Retirement System
Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: January 30, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1343 was introduced to amend existing laws related to benefits under the Arkansas Judicial Retirement System. The primary intent of the bill was to update and clarify the provisions governing retirement benefits for judges and other judicial personnel in Arkansas.

Key Provisions

While the specific changes proposed in HB 1343 are not detailed in the provided text, the bill's subtitle indicates a focus on modifying the benefits structure within the Arkansas Judicial Retirement System. Typically, such amendments may include:

  • Adjustments to retirement age or service requirements
  • Changes in benefit calculations or payout structures
  • Provisions for cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs)
  • Eligibility criteria for retirement benefits

The bill aimed to ensure that the retirement benefits for judicial officers remain competitive and adequate for their service.

Affected Parties

The primary beneficiaries of HB 1343 would have been:

  • Judges and justices serving in the Arkansas judicial system
  • Retired judges currently receiving benefits
  • Future judicial appointees who would be impacted by the amended retirement provisions

Additionally, any changes to the retirement system could have implications for state budget allocations and funding for the Arkansas Judicial Retirement System.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 30, 2025: HB 1343 was filed and read for the first time. The rules were suspended, and it was read a second time before being referred to the Committee on House Journal; Engrossed and Enrolled Bills.
  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress further in the legislative process.

Conclusion

Although HB 1343 did not advance beyond the committee stage, its introduction highlights ongoing discussions regarding the adequacy and structure of retirement benefits for Arkansas's judicial personnel. The bill's failure to progress underscores the challenges faced in legislative processes, particularly concerning financial implications and stakeholder interests.

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

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