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HB 1600

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING MUNICIPAL LAW ENFORCEMENT; AND TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING HOLIDAY COMPENSATION, ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE, AND SICK LEAVE FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Breanne Davis and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1600 boosts benefits for Arkansas law enforcement, ensuring holiday pay, 15 days of vacation, and 20 days of sick leave annually, enhancing officer well-being.

Notification that HB1600 is now Act 317
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1600

Summary of House Bill 1600 (HB 1600)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1600 (HB 1600) aims to amend existing laws related to municipal law enforcement in Arkansas, specifically focusing on holiday compensation, annual vacation leave, and sick leave for law enforcement officers. The bill seeks to enhance the benefits and protections afforded to full-time law enforcement personnel employed by cities of the first or second class and incorporated towns.

Key Provisions

1. Holiday Compensation

  • Eligibility: All full-time law enforcement officers, regardless of their titles (e.g., city marshal), are entitled to compensation for all legal holidays established by their municipality.
  • Compensation Structure:
    • Compensation will be based on the officer's daily rate of pay.
    • This compensation can be included in the officer's base pay.
    • It may be prorated and paid during regular payroll periods or as a lump sum in December.

2. Annual Vacation Leave

  • Minimum Leave: Each full-time law enforcement officer is entitled to a minimum of 15 working days of annual vacation leave with full pay.
  • Approval Requirement: The use of vacation leave must be approved by the head of the police department before it is taken.
  • Accumulation: Unused vacation leave can accumulate up to a maximum determined by municipal ordinance, and officers may be compensated for unused leave upon retirement or termination.

3. Sick Leave

  • Accumulation Rate: Full-time law enforcement officers will accumulate sick leave at a rate of 20 working days per year, starting one year after employment.
  • Maximum Accumulation: Unused sick leave can accumulate up to 60 days, unless a municipality allows for a greater amount.
  • Payment Upon Retirement: Officers will be compensated for unused sick leave at their regular rate of pay upon retirement or death, with a maximum payout of 60 days' salary unless otherwise authorized by the municipality.

4. Catastrophic Leave Program

  • Municipalities may adopt a catastrophic leave program that includes a "presumptive illness list" for law enforcement officers, which identifies chronic or fatal illnesses.

Affected Parties

  • Law Enforcement Officers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are full-time law enforcement officers employed by cities and towns in Arkansas.
  • Municipalities: Local governments will need to adjust their policies and budgets to comply with the new provisions regarding holiday compensation, vacation, and sick leave.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 26, 2025
  • Passed: The bill underwent several readings and amendments, ultimately passing through both the House and Senate by March 12, 2025.
  • Enacted: HB 1600 was signed into law and is now known as Act 317 as of March 18, 2025.

Conclusion

HB 1600 represents a significant update to the laws governing municipal law enforcement in Arkansas, enhancing the benefits available to law enforcement officers. By improving holiday compensation, vacation leave, and sick leave policies, the bill aims to support the well-being and job satisfaction of those serving in law enforcement roles.

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

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