Arkansas House Bill HB1092

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 - State Parks And Tourism Divisions Reappropriation.

Impact

The passage of HB1092 is significant as it empowers the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism to utilize previously allocated resources more effectively, ensuring that programs related to environmental stewardship and tourism development are sustained. This reappropriation will allow the agency flexibility in funding critical projects that may contribute to the state’s economic growth through enhanced tourism offerings and preservation efforts.

Summary

House Bill 1092 seeks to manage the financial reappropriation of existing capital improvement funds specifically allocated for the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism in Arkansas. This bill enables the continuation of funding for state parks and tourism divisions to ensure effective acquisition, management, and preservation of state-owned lands and historic sites. By reallocating $15,455,000 in previously approved funds, HB1092 aims to support ongoing projects essential for maintaining the state's cultural and natural resources.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB1092 appears predominantly positive among legislators, given its unanimous support during voting where it passed with 33 yeas and no nays. The general view is that reappropriating funds for parks and tourism not only fosters economic benefits through increased visitation but also enhances the cultural identity and conservation of Arkansas' natural resources, thus attracting bipartisan support.

Contention

While the bill has seen wide support, notable points of contention may arise regarding the management and prioritization of these funds. Discussions in future legislative sessions might focus on ensuring transparency in fund allocation and the potential impact of high capital allotments on other state funding priorities. Moreover, stakeholders may voice concerns regarding the effectiveness of the Department's plans for utilizing these reappropriated funds.