Arkansas House Bill HB1427

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Engrossed: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23
• Report Pass: 3/27/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Enrolled: 4/4/23
• Chaptered: 4/6/23
• Passed: 4/6/23

Caption

To Amend Provisions Of Arkansas Law Related To The Code Revisor; And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

The bill introduces amendments that clarify the powers and responsibilities of the Bureau of Legislative Research and the Arkansas Code Revision Commission, ensuring that no changes to the substance or meaning of existing laws will occur without proper oversight. This aligns with the goals of maintaining the integrity of state laws while allowing minor corrections in spelling, typographical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. Such adjustments are integral for enhancing the clarity and accessibility of legal documents for public consumption and legal applicability.

Summary

House Bill 1427 aims to amend existing provisions of Arkansas law concerning the role and authority of the Code Revisor, an individual responsible for ensuring that the laws enacted by the General Assembly are codified accurately in the Arkansas Code. This legislation is particularly significant as it comes at a time when the current Code Revisor is set to retire, which prompted lawmakers to address the procedures surrounding the hiring and responsibilities of the successor. By streamlining the process for appointing a new Code Revisor, the bill seeks to maintain continuity and efficiency in the legislative codification process, impacting how laws are recorded and maintained in the state's legal framework.

Sentiment

The response to HB 1427 among legislators appears to be generally supportive, as there were no opposing votes noted during its passage through the legislative process. The sentiment surrounding the bill reflects a desire for better operational management within legislative functions, particularly in the face of impending transitions. However, some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the lack of discussion on how current practices may be challenged by these amendments, focusing on whether sufficient checks and balances remain intact.

Contention

Despite the overall positive reception, discussions did hint at potential points of contention, particularly around how the amendments might affect the speed of the legislative process versus the need for thoroughness in codifying laws. Critics could argue that streamlining the appointment process, while necessary, might overlook important aspects of oversight and public accountability. As the bill effectively creates a pathway for a smoother transition in leadership within the Bureau, the fine balance between efficiency and careful oversight continues to be a focal point for advocates of transparency in government.