Arkansas House Bill HB1029

Arkansas 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/10/24
• Report Pass: 4/25/24
• Engrossed: 4/30/24
• Enrolled: 5/1/24
• Chaptered: 5/3/24
• Passed: 5/3/24

Caption

An Act For The Arkansas State Claims Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Impact

The passage of HB 1029 ensures that adequate funding is in place to provide necessary financial support to families affected by the loss of public safety personnel, thereby reinforcing the importance of these roles in safeguarding the community. The funding will also support the operational capabilities of the Arkansas State Claims Commission, which plays a crucial role in managing and disbursing these claims effectively. By doing so, the bill seeks to uphold the state’s obligation to those who serve and protect its citizens, ensuring that families are not left without support during challenging times.

Summary

House Bill 1029 aims to appropriate funds for the Arkansas State Claims Commission for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The bill specifically allocates resources for the payment of claims to the surviving spouses and dependent children of state employees who have died in the line of duty, including policemen, firemen, and correctional officers. The total amount appropriated amounts to $2,250,000 for such claims, reflecting the state's commitment to supporting families of public safety personnel. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for operational expenses and salaries for the Commission's staff, totaling approximately $731,614.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around HB 1029 appears to be positive, with broad acknowledgment of the need to honor and support families of fallen state employees. Stakeholders have expressed appreciation for the funding set aside to help address the financial burdens faced by these families, particularly in terms of claims and benefits that are critical following the loss of a loved one in the line of duty. The bill is seen as a necessary step in acknowledging the sacrifices made by public safety employees, which resonates positively with both legislators and the community.

Contention

While the bill enjoys support for its core focus on providing aid to families of deceased state employees, discussions have emerged regarding the adequacy of the appropriated funds and how they will be distributed. Some lawmakers have raised concerns about the sufficiency of the funding not just for the immediate claims, but also for ensuring that the claims process operates effectively and efficiently. There are also discussions on the long-term sustainability of funding for similar claims in the future, which could prompt further legislative debates.