An Act For The Office Of The Treasurer Of State Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.
Impact
The passage of HB1033 will have a direct impact on the functionality and structure of the Office of the Treasurer. It allows for not only the regular salaries of the full-time staff but also provides provisions for hiring temporary employees as needed. This flexibility is intended to improve operations and service delivery, especially in areas where additional short-term assistance may be required. The bill reflects the state's commitment to ensuring that the Treasurer's Office can effectively manage its financial responsibilities and educational outreach programs.
Summary
House Bill 1033 is an appropriations bill introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly. It aims to allocate funds for the Office of the Treasurer of State for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The bill specifies appropriations for various operational needs, including regular salaries, extra help, operating expenses, data processing services, and financial education programs. A total of approximately $7.3 million is budgeted under this bill to ensure efficient operations of the Treasurer's office, supporting functions such as the Arkansas 529 College Savings Program and Arkansas ABLE Program.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment surrounding HB1033 appears to be positive among legislators, as the budget provision is seen as necessary for maintaining essential services provided by the Treasurer's Office. The unanimous vote in favor of the bill (32 yeas, 0 nays) suggests strong bipartisan support for the funding of fiscal operations in the state. This reflects a recognition of the crucial role that the Treasurer's Office plays in managing state finances and providing educational financial programs.
Contention
While HB1033 passed without opposition, potential contention could arise from discussions regarding the allocations and oversight of the appropriations. The bill includes a provision for the Treasurer to adjust salaries and expenses with required approvals from the Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee. This oversight requirement showcases an effort to maintain accountability and transparency in funding usage, which might prompt discussions on whether current voting dynamics will adequately monitor these appropriations moving forward.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.