An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Community Correction Reappropriation.
Impact
If passed, HB 1092 will impact the financial operations of the Department of Corrections by ensuring that previously allocated funds are redirected towards necessary improvements and upgrades of correction facilities. By reappropriating funds, the bill aims to enhance safety and functionality in community correction centers, potentially improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals in the correctional system. This legislative action signifies the state’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading its correctional facilities to meet contemporary needs.
Summary
House Bill 1092 proposes to reappropriate existing balances of capital improvement appropriations specifically for the Department of Corrections, focusing on the Division of Community Correction. The bill outlines the allocation of funds for various construction and repair projects including roof repairs, facility renovations, and building acquisitions in different regions, such as Searcy and Northwest Arkansas. The intended purpose is to utilize funds effectively to enhance the community correction infrastructure.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment regarding HB 1092 seems to be supportive, particularly among stakeholders concerned with the adequacy of correctional facilities. Legislators recognized the importance of maintaining infrastructure that supports rehabilitation and community correction. There has been little vocal opposition to the bill, suggesting a consensus on the need for such improvements, although some may raise concerns over budget allocation priorities in the face of other state needs.
Contention
While the bill appears to have general support, potential points of contention may arise around how these reallocated funds intersect with other funding priorities within the state budget. Some proponents might advocate for a greater emphasis on rehabilitation and community programs, while others may question the extent of investment in correctional infrastructure amidst needs for educational and health services. Therefore, the balance of allocation across state services could become a topic of future discussion.
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.