AR
Arkansas Senate Bill SB480

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB480

Introduced
3/17/25  
Refer
3/17/25  
Report Pass
3/20/25  
Engrossed
3/31/25  
Refer
3/31/25  
Report Pass
4/9/25  
Enrolled
4/15/25  
Chaptered
4/18/25  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning The Investment Of State Funds.

Impact

The passage of SB480 is expected to enhance the investment strategy of the State Treasury by allowing for a broader range of permitted investments while still adhering to safeguards intended to protect public funds. By clarifying the definitions and conditions for investments, the bill aims to optimize the management of state assets and increase the treasury's returns on investments. Overall, the bill is set to modernize investment practices and align them with current financial market conditions.

Summary

Senate Bill 480 seeks to amend existing laws regarding the investment of state funds, particularly as they pertain to the State Treasury. The bill introduces revisions to various provisions in Arkansas Code ยง 19-3-518, which details the types of securities and financial instruments in which state funds may be invested. Key amendments clarify the conditions under which state funds can be invested, including obligations issued by the State Board of Education and stricter requirements for corporate obligations based on their investment-grade ratings.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB480 appears to be positive among lawmakers and financial experts, particularly due to its focus on improving the efficiency and profitability of state fund management. Stakeholders recognize the need for nuanced investment strategies that accommodate shifts in the financial environment, yet there may still be lingering concerns over ensuring proper oversight and risk management if certain investments are permitted.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise concerning the expanded allowance for corporate obligations with lower investment-grade ratings than previously permitted. While proponents argue that this change will encourage more diverse investment opportunities and potentially higher returns, critics could express concerns about the risk tolerance associated with such investments, prompting calls for additional oversight and restrictions to protect taxpayer money.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1307

Concerning The Regulation Of Environmental, Social Justice, Or Governance Scores; And To Authorize The Treasurer Of State To Divest Certain Investments Or Obligations Due To Certain Factors.

AR HB1438

To Amend The Uniform Money Services Act.

AR SB101

To Amend Various Provisions Of The Arkansas Code As They Pertain To The University Of Arkansas.

AR SB392

An Act To Amend The Law Concerning Body Art; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Cosmetology Technical Advisory Committee.

AR HB1191

To Amend The Law Concerning Management And Sale Of Tax Delinquent Lands By The Commissioner Of State Lands; And To Standardize The Use Of The Term "parcel".

AR SB320

To Provide Consumer Protection For In-state Internet Auction Sales And Estate Sales; To Amend The Law Concerning The Auctioneers Licensing Board; And To Amend The Auctioneer's Licensing Law.

AR HB1780

Concerning Cybersecurity Insurance; To Establish The Arkansas Self-funded Cyber Response Program And The Arkansas Cyber Response Board; And To Create The Arkansas Self-funded Cyber Response Program Trust Fund.

AR HB1689

To Amend The Public School Funding Act Of 2003; And To Create The Comprehensive Investment In Student Achievement Act.

AR SB356

To Abolish Inactive State Entities; To Amend The Law Concerning The Reporting Of Boards And Commissions; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1616

To Amend The Law Concerning Publication Of Notice; To Allow The Publication Of Notice On A Website; To Amend The Law Concerning Counties And Municipalities And Publication; And To Amend The Law Concerning Elections.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.