Arkansas House Bill HB1392

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25
• Report Pass: 2/6/25
• Engrossed: 2/10/25
• Enrolled: 2/11/25
• Chaptered: 2/13/25
• Passed: 2/13/25

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Community Correction Reappropriation.

Impact

The reappropriation of these funds is critical for ensuring that the facilities operate safely and effectively. By providing financial resources for maintenance and upgrades, the bill seeks to enhance the infrastructure of correctional facilities, which can impact the overall delivery of services within the corrections system. This is seen as a step towards improving the safety and security of both inmates and staff by ensuring that facilities are kept up to standard and can adequately serve the needs of the population.

Summary

House Bill 1392 aims to reappropriate funds for various capital improvement projects managed by the Arkansas Department of Corrections, specifically within its Division of Community Correction. The bill details the reallocation of previous appropriations which are necessary for the maintenance and upgrading of correctional facilities and other associated projects. Notable expenditures include allocations for elevators, roof repairs, parking lot repairs, and surveillance system upgrades which are all essential for maintaining operational standards in the community correction facilities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB1392 appears to be pragmatic, with recognition of the necessity of upkeep in public infrastructure, particularly within the corrections system. Legislators discussing the bill highlighted the importance of timely funding to prevent larger issues that can arise from deferred maintenance. There is an understanding of the budgetary constraints within state finances, but a collective agreement that the funds are essential for ongoing operations.

Contention

While there does not appear to be significant contention expressed in the discussions surrounding HB1392, there is an underlying awareness regarding budget allocation priorities. As discussions often are in legislative contexts, potential disagreements may emerge between different factions about where funds should be directed, particularly concerning whether these reappropriated funds could be better utilized in other sectors or for other pressing needs.