Arkansas House Bill HB1116

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 At Little Rock Supplemental Appropriation.

Impact

The passage of HB1116 is poised to have a significant impact on state laws regarding funding for educational institutions. By securing additional financial resources specifically for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the bill aims to ensure the university can continue to deliver critical services. This supplemental funding is particularly necessary due to prior fiscal insufficiencies that posed risks to the operational capacity of the university.

Summary

House Bill 1116 proposes a supplemental appropriation for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, allocating a total of $1,311,926, which includes regular salaries and personal services matching. This funding is intended to be supplemental and additional to those already appropriated under the previously established Act 112 of 2021. The bill underscores the importance of providing necessary financial resources to sustain essential governmental services amidst unforeseen fiscal challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1116 appears largely supportive, especially among lawmakers prioritizing education and state services. The unanimous vote of 33 to 0 in favor of the bill during its third reading indicates a broad consensus on the necessity of the funding for the university. However, there is an underlying concern regarding the sustainability of such appropriations and how they reflect the overall fiscal health of the state.

Contention

One notable point of contention revolves around the reliance on supplemental appropriations like HB1116 to address funding gaps. Critics might argue that this reflects a reactive instead of a proactive financial strategy in managing state budgetary challenges. The emphasis on emergency funding could also suggest potential instability in budget planning, raising questions about long-term financial viability for state institutions like the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.