Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1415

Introduced
2/13/23  
Refer
2/13/23  

Caption

To Amend Arkansas Constitution, Article 19, ยง 14, And Arkansas Law To Provide That Lottery Proceeds May Be Used For Scholarships And Grants To Arkansans Enrolled In Vocational-technical Schools And Technical Institutes.

Impact

If passed, HB 1415 would necessitate amendments to current state laws governing health insurance and subsidies. The legislation aims to lower the financial burden on low-income families by introducing measures that provide assistance for premium payments and other related healthcare costs. Advocates of the bill emphasize that such reforms are crucial as the current insurance model often leaves behind many who need it the most, ultimately enhancing public health and reducing long-term healthcare costs to the state.

Summary

House Bill 1415 seeks to expand healthcare access and affordability for low-income residents by providing subsidies for insurance coverage. The bill intends to address the gaps in existing healthcare provisions, ensuring that vulnerable populations are not left without access to necessary treatment options. Supporters argue that this expansion will significantly improve the health outcomes for many families struggling to afford healthcare, making a strong case for increased funding and support from the state government.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 1415 is largely positive among healthcare advocates and community organizations, who see it as a necessary step towards ensuring that everyone has access to affordable healthcare. However, there is some opposition from conservative factions who argue that the bill represents an unnecessary expansion of government intervention in healthcare, with concerns over long-term sustainability and fiscal responsibility. This divide illustrates the broader national debate on healthcare reform and access.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1415 include concerns about the source of funding for the proposed subsidies and the potential for increased taxes to support the initiative. Opponents highlight the risks of expanding government involvement in healthcare, fearing it may lead to inefficiencies and a possible decline in the quality of care provided. These discussions reflect deeper ideological divides on the long-term role of government in managing healthcare systems and the balance between private and public sector responsibilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

CA SB1287

Public postsecondary education: Equity in Higher Education Act: prohibition on violence, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.

CA SB1381

Public postsecondary education: Campus Free Expression Act.

CA SB472

Public postsecondary education: Campus Free Expression Act.

LA HB391

(Constitutional Amendment) Relative to management of postsecondary education, abolishes the Board of Regents and the management boards and transfers their powers, duties, and responsibilities to a newly created La. Postsecondary Education Board of Trustees (RE INCREASE GF EX See Note)

KY HB224

AN ACT relating to constitutional freedoms at public postsecondary education institutions.

KY HB139

AN ACT relating to constitutional freedoms at public postsecondary education institutions.

LA SB140

Constitutional Amendment to abolish the Board of Regents and the postsecondary management boards and transfer their powers, duties, and responsibilities to a newly created La. Postsecondary Education Board of Trustees. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA SB128

Constitutional Amendment to provide exclusive authority to Board of Supervisors for Community and Technical Colleges over programs of public postsecondary vocational-technical training and institutions of higher education offering associate degrees but not baccalaureate degrees. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR NO IMPACT See Note)