An Act For The Department Of Parks, Heritage, And Tourism - Division Of Heritage Reappropriation.
Impact
The bill, if passed, will directly impact state laws regarding the management and distribution of funds from the Arkansas Division of Heritage Special Fund Account. It specifically addresses the need to ensure that available funds are utilized effectively for the purposes outlined in the act including grants to community-based organizations. By focusing on cultural preservation, the bill emphasizes the state's commitment to enriching its heritage and arts, which plays a crucial role in tourism and community identity.
Summary
House Bill 1086 is a legislative proposal aimed at reappropriating funds for the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, specifically for the Division of Heritage. The bill outlines the allocation of $29.5 million for grants and loans to support various projects that focus on preserving and promoting the natural cultural heritage of Arkansas. This includes initiatives aimed at advancing the arts and maintaining natural areas, alongside other projects that document the state's history and traditions.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1086 appears to be largely positive, with support noted among lawmakers and cultural organizations that recognize the importance of preserving Arkansas's natural and cultural heritage. Elected officials were particularly focused on the long-term benefits that enhanced funding for heritage projects will bring to both residents and tourists, thereby boosting economic activity in the area.
Contention
While there appears to be broad support for the intents of HB 1086, concerns may arise over the precise allocation and control of funds. Some opponents may question whether the funds will be adequately monitored to ensure they fulfill their intended purposes, as with any reappropriation, additional scrutiny regarding fiscal responsibility and impact assessment can be expected. Furthermore, competing interests among different community organizations may result in contention over funding priorities.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.