Arkansas House Bill HB1656

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/23
• Refer: 3/16/23
• Report Pass: 3/29/23
• Engrossed: 3/30/23
• Refer: 3/31/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Require A Report Concerning Funds Supporting Programs For Individuals Starting New Businesses Or Businesses Established Within The Previous Five Years.

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant as it seeks to provide a clearer picture of how funds are being utilized to support emerging businesses within the state. By requiring detailed reporting, the bill aims to ensure that resources are directed toward fostering entrepreneurship and job creation. The first report under this legislation is expected by January 1, 2025, marking a commitment to ongoing evaluation and support for business development in Arkansas.

Summary

House Bill 1656 is designed to enhance transparency regarding state funding for businesses, particularly focusing on those that are newly established or have been operational for less than five years. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Department of Commerce prepare an annual report detailing the percentage of workforce development funds allocated to organizations or programs that support new business initiatives. This report is to be submitted to both the Governor and the appropriate committees in the House and Senate.

Contention

While the bill appears to be largely beneficial by promoting transparency and accountability, there may be points of contention regarding the effectiveness of the reporting requirements. Critics might argue about the practicality of measuring the impact of funding on new businesses or whether such requirements could create an additional bureaucratic burden for state agencies. However, supporters believe that such measures are essential for tracking the success of workforce development initiatives and aligning state spending with economic growth objectives.