Arkansas Senate Bill SB191

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: 2/17/25
• Passed: 2/17/25

Caption

An Act For The Secretary Of State Reappropriation.

Impact

The impact of SB191 on state laws and funding allocations is significant as it sets forward directives on how appropriated funds from prior legislation will be spent. Appropriations such as $15 million for voting machine equipment and various sums for building renovations indicate a strong legislative commitment to maintaining both the functionality and safety of state operations. The emergency clause within the bill underscores the urgency of the measures, as it allows the act to take effect immediately upon passage, thus ensuring that necessary projects can proceed without delay from July 1, 2025.

Summary

Senate Bill 191, titled 'An Act for the Secretary of State Reappropriation,' primarily focuses on the reallocation of capital improvement funds designated for the Secretary of State's office. The bill aims to facilitate the funding of various projects related to the State Capitol building and grounds, including upgrades to voting machine equipment, HVAC systems, and essential renovations such as roof and window repairs. This reappropriation plan serves as a mechanism to ensure that previously allocated funds are properly utilized for their intended purposes and that essential maintenance and upgrades to state facilities are executed in a timely manner.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB191 is generally supportive, as it addresses critical needs for the improvement and maintenance of state properties. While specific dissent or opposition isn't indicated in the available discussions regarding the bill, the necessity of ensuring proper funding management and the swift enactment of essential improvements tend to garner bipartisan approval, given the overarching need for effective governance and infrastructure resilience.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to SB191 might arise concerning how funds are allocated among various projects and whether there are sufficiently transparent oversight mechanisms in place to monitor the expenditure of reallocated funds. Additionally, discussions around the efficiency of state infrastructure improvements and the prioritization of certain projects over others could spark debate among stakeholders. However, with the emphasis on essential maintenance and improvements, the bill is designed to circumvent significant controversy.