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HB 1543

TO ESTABLISH THE WORKFORCE EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES ACT OF 2025.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Irvin and 1 co-sponsor

The Workforce Experience Opportunities Act allows SNAP recipients in Arkansas to volunteer at state-funded entities, boosting employment and self-sufficiency.

Notification that HB1543 is now Act 631
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Bill Summary · HB 1543

Summary of HB 1543: Workforce Experience Opportunities Act of 2025

Bill Number: HB 1543
Status: Now Act 631
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Effective Date: January 1, 2026

Purpose and Intent

The Workforce Experience Opportunities Act of 2025 aims to enhance employment opportunities and self-sufficiency for families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Arkansas. The legislation seeks to provide these individuals with the chance to fulfill work requirements by volunteering at state-funded entities, thereby increasing their engagement in the workforce.

Key Provisions

The Act introduces several important provisions under a new subchapter in Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 76:

1. Definitions

  • State-funded entity: Includes any agency or municipal office that receives state funding and employs individuals indoors at least part-time.
  • Work requirement volunteer: A state resident required to comply with SNAP work requirements who does not qualify for exemptions.

2. Requirements for State-Funded Entities

  • Acceptance of Volunteers: State-funded entities must accept and accommodate work requirement volunteers who provide documentation of their work requirement and identification.
  • Documentation: Entities are required to provide timely documentation to the relevant agency certifying the volunteer's presence and compliance.
  • Monitoring: Volunteers may monitor operations, provided it does not interfere with essential functions or safety.

3. Liability Protections

  • State-funded entities and their employees are not liable for injuries or damages caused by volunteers, except in cases of reckless or intentional misconduct.
  • Volunteers are not eligible for workers' compensation benefits.

4. Exemptions

  • Entities may be exempt from accommodating volunteers if their presence would interfere with essential operations or public safety.

Impact

The Act is expected to:
- Increase Employment: By allowing SNAP recipients to volunteer, it aims to help them gain work experience and meet employment requirements.
- Support State-Funded Entities: These entities will have the opportunity to engage volunteers, potentially enhancing their operations without incurring liability for volunteer-related incidents.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 20, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • April 3, 2025: Amendment #1 adopted and the bill reported correctly engrossed.
  • April 9, 2025: Passed by the House and sent to the Senate.
  • April 10, 2025: Passed by the Senate with amendments.
  • April 16, 2025: Notification that HB 1543 is now Act 631.

This legislation represents a significant step towards improving workforce participation among low-income families in Arkansas, aligning with broader goals of economic self-sufficiency and community engagement.

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

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