Arkansas House Bill HB1091

Arkansas 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/24
• Report Pass: 4/17/24
• Refer: 4/11/24
• Engrossed: 4/18/24
• Enrolled: 4/24/24
• Chaptered: 4/25/24
• Passed: 4/25/24

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Parks, Heritage, And Tourism - Division Of Heritage Reappropriation.

Impact

Legally, if enacted, HB 1091 will allow for the reappropriation of $15,647,780 from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Grant and Trust Fund to carry out the stated goals. This will facilitate maintenance efforts at heritage sites, supporting the preservation of significant cultural resources. The bill is seen as a necessary measure to avoid any interruptions in funding, which would be critical for maintaining operations and programs under the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, particularly the Division of Heritage.

Summary

House Bill 1091 pertains to the reappropriation of funds for the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, specifically targeting the Division of Heritage. The bill authorizes the allocation of funds for the maintenance, acquisition, and preservation of state-owned lands and historic sites. With an effective date of July 1, 2024, it aims to ensure that necessary funding is available to improve and secure the state's heritage assets, thus promoting both conservation and tourism activities throughout Arkansas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1091 appears to be largely positive, especially among lawmakers and stakeholders in the tourism and heritage sectors. Supporters argue that the funding is crucial for protecting Arkansas's historical and cultural assets, which ultimately benefits local economies through tourism. Moreover, there are no opposing votes recorded during the voting session, indicating broad bipartisan support for the bill.

Contention

Despite its positive reception, there may be underlying contentions related to prioritization of appropriations and the effectiveness of fund distribution. Some may argue whether the allocated funds for the preservation efforts are sufficient or whether they can adequately cover the extensive needs of various heritage sites throughout the state. Moreover, questions could arise around the accountability for how funds are used, particularly in relation to preserving existing sites versus acquiring new ones.