Arkansas Senate Bill SB107

Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22
• Report Pass: 3/3/22
• Engrossed: 3/3/22
• Enrolled: 3/8/22
• Chaptered: 3/8/22
• Passed: 3/8/22

Caption

An Act For The Auditor Of State - Extra Help For The Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Appropriation For The 2021-2022 Fiscal Year.

Impact

The bill represents a significant legislative response to the challenges posed by the pandemic on the state’s legal framework. With an emergency clause in place, it emphasizes the urgency of addressing the backlog and improving the efficiency of criminal proceedings. By ensuring that prosecutors have the necessary resources, SB107 aims to enhance the state's capacity to manage and process criminal cases efficiently, directly impacting the criminal justice landscape in Arkansas. The appropriation of funds also showcases the state government’s commitment to maintaining public safety and responding to the emergent demands of the justice system.

Summary

Senate Bill 107, proposed in the Arkansas General Assembly, aims to provide an appropriation for additional funding to support deputy prosecuting attorneys. Specifically, it allocates a total of $9 million for extra help and associated costs within the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. The bill is a direct response to the backlog of criminal cases exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the state's legislative focus on addressing gaps in its criminal justice system caused by the health crisis. With this funding, it seeks to facilitate hiring temporary or part-time employees to help alleviate pressing workloads within prosecutorial offices across Arkansas.

Sentiment

Support for SB107 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, as the bill received a unanimous vote in favor during its third reading in the legislature, indicating broad bipartisan agreement on the necessity of the measure. Legislators recognize the pressing need for additional support amidst an ongoing state of emergency concerning the backlog in the criminal justice system. However, it is crucial to note that any discussion surrounding funding for state resources often invites scrutiny regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of those expenditures, as members of different committees may raise concerns over the management and allocation of such funds in the future.

Contention

While the bill does not seem to encounter notable opposition—reflected in the unanimous passage—it may face challenges in implementation, particularly in ensuring that the additional resources provided lead to tangible improvements in the criminal justice process. Questions may arise regarding the sustainability of funding and whether such temporary positions appropriately address the longer-term structural issues. Additionally, concerns often surface regarding the balance between adequate funding and ensuring accountability within the legal system, especially when hiring temporary staff.