Arkansas Senate Bill SB49

Arkansas 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/24
• Refer: 4/10/24
• Report Pass: 4/16/24
• Engrossed: 4/17/24
• Enrolled: 4/18/24
• Chaptered: 4/23/24
• Passed: 4/23/24

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Impact

The passage of SB49 is crucial for the functioning of the Department of Energy and Environment, as it ensures that the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board can continue its operations without interruption. The funds allocated will support direct services, regulatory oversight, and enforcement activities related to the gas industry, which plays a significant role in Arkansas' energy landscape and economy. Additionally, the bill reinforces the state’s commitment to managing energy resources effectively, while providing a framework for regulatory compliance under established laws.

Summary

Senate Bill 49 is legislation aimed at appropriating funds for the Department of Energy and Environment, specifically for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The bill establishes a budget that includes salaries for regular employees, part-time workers, and various operating expenses essential for the functioning of the board. The total appropriation outlined in the bill amounts to $629,571 which intends to cover necessary administrative and operational costs associated with the oversight of liquefied petroleum gas activities in Arkansas.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB49 appears to be generally positive among legislators, as reflected by the unanimous vote of 92 yeas with no nays recorded during the third reading. This strong bipartisan support indicates that lawmakers recognize the importance of funding for energy regulations and see the propositions within the bill as beneficial for both state governance and industry stability. The consensus suggests that the necessity of this funding is well acknowledged across different party lines, showcasing a collective agreement on the importance of state energy management.

Contention

While the bill was smoothly passed through the voting process, discussions surrounding state appropriations can sometimes evoke concerns about budget allocations and prioritization of funds in legislative sessions. As these appropriations can lead to debates over competing funding needs from various departments, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board may need to justify the necessity of its funding in comparison to other critical state requirements. Despite the current support, tensions can arise in future budget sessions regarding resource allocation, especially as economic conditions evolve.