Arkansas House Bill HB1112

Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/22
• Refer: 2/16/22
• Report Pass: 2/22/22
• Engrossed: 2/23/22
• Enrolled: 3/2/22
• Chaptered: 3/3/22
• Passed: 3/3/22

Caption

An Act For The University Of Arkansas Community College At Hope-texarkana Supplemental Appropriation.

Impact

The passage of HB1112 is critical for maintaining the operational integrity of the community college, which serves a significant educational role within its locality. With the added funding, the college can cover essential costs that might otherwise hinder its capability to provide educational services. This emergency funding reflects the larger legislative intent to stabilize funding in the face of budgetary constraints, thereby ensuring that the college can continue to operate effectively during challenging times.

Summary

House Bill 1112 seeks to provide a supplemental appropriation for the operating expenses of the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope-Texarkana. The bill addresses financial shortfalls due to unforeseen circumstances and ensures that the college can continue to provide essential government services without disruption. Specifically, it allocates a total of $249,455 for maintenance and general operation expenses for the fiscal year 2021-2022, underpinning the budgetary needs that have arisen beyond prior appropriations made under Act 113 of 2021.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1112 appears largely positive, particularly among legislators who understand the vital role of community colleges in education and workforce development. The decision to characterize this bill as an emergency appropriation indicates a recognition of urgent funding needs. Additionally, legislators likely perceive the investment in education as a priority that fosters long-term economic stability and growth within their communities.

Contention

While there hasn't been any notable opposition highlighted in the transcripts relating to HB1112, issues surrounding educational funding allocations can often elicit concerns regarding the sustainability of such appropriations. Critics may argue about the fairness of funding distributions to various educational institutions or the potential need for more systematic financial reforms in state education funding. The approval of the bill, as reflected in the unanimous voting outcome (33 yeas, 0 nays), suggests a consensus on the immediate necessity for the college's operational funding .