Arkansas House Bill HR1010

Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/22
• Refer: 2/14/22
• Report Pass: 2/14/22

Caption

To Authorize A Nonappropriation Bill To Require A Fiscal Impact Statement For Any Proposed Legislation Imposing A New Or Increased Cost Obligation For Health Benefit Plans, Including Pharmacy Benefits, On An Entity Of The State.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend existing laws to necessitate that any bill impacting the financial obligations arising from health benefit plans submitted to the Arkansas General Assembly include a fiscal impact statement. This statement would provide an evaluation of the anticipated financial impact on state entities, including public schools and government agencies. By requiring these assessments, HR1010 aims to ensure that legislators are equipped with adequate information to make informed decisions about the fiscal implications of health-related legislations.

Summary

House Resolution 1010 (HR1010) proposes a new legislative requirement for fiscal impact statements to be included with any proposed legislation that would impose new or increased cost obligations on health benefit plans, including pharmacy benefits, for entities of the state. This initiative came as a response to concerns regarding the financial sustainability of health benefits provided to public school employees and state employees in Arkansas. The bill emphasizes the need for financial transparency in the legislative process, particularly for provisions affecting state budgets and public health care programs.

Contention

However, the bill has stirred some debate regarding its necessity and potential implications. Advocates argue that such a requirement can protect state resources and ensure that new health initiatives do not lead to unexpected financial burdens. Critics, on the other hand, contend that this extra bureaucratic step may slow down the legislative process for urgent health care reforms and could lead to legislative gridlock on necessary health policies, especially those aimed at improving public employees' conditions.