Arkansas Senate Bill SB63

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23
• Report Pass: 1/24/23
• Engrossed: 1/25/23
• Enrolled: 1/26/23
• Chaptered: 2/6/23
• Passed: 2/6/23

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

Impact

The bill ensures that the Department of Energy and Environment has the necessary financial resources to operate effectively, which is crucial for the regulation and oversight of liquefied petroleum gas. This operational funding is important for ensuring safety and adhering to environmental standards within the state, thereby impacting energy regulatory policies. The appropriations outlined in the bill will enable the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board to address current operational needs, leading to more effective oversight in this area. The allocation of such funds helps to prevent any disruption in services that could arise from budget constraints and promotes continuous regulatory activities.

Summary

Senate Bill 63 aims to make an appropriation for the Department of Energy and Environment, specifically for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The bill outlines the funding required for personal services, operating expenses, and other essential functions related to this regulatory board. The financial provisions include salaries and operational costs that are deemed necessary for the effective functioning of the agency responsible for overseeing liquefied petroleum gas management in the state. By approving this bill, the state underscores its commitment to maintaining governance over this energy sector and its associated activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB63 appears generally supportive, particularly from legislative members who recognize the importance of energy regulation and environmental safety. With a significant majority voting in favor (97 yeas to 1 nay), the bill reflects a broad consensus on the necessity of allocating resources to the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding budget allocations and the management of state funds, as with any appropriation bill, although these concerns were not prominently highlighted during discussions.

Contention

While the bill passed with overwhelming support, it could still face scrutiny from stakeholders concerned about the prioritization of funding and the effectiveness of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board itself. Questions around regulatory efficiency, the balance of oversight between state and private sector, and how funds are managed and allocated can lead to debates in future discussions. Furthermore, stakeholders may call for more transparency regarding how these appropriated funds will directly benefit environmental training and compliance activities within the energy sector.