Arkansas House Bill HB1092

Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/22
• Refer: 2/14/22
• Report Pass: 2/16/22
• Engrossed: 2/17/22
• Enrolled: 2/23/22
• Chaptered: 2/25/22
• Passed: 2/25/22

Caption

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

Impact

If passed, HB 1092 will impact the financial operations of the Department of Corrections by ensuring that previously allocated funds are redirected towards necessary improvements and upgrades of correction facilities. By reappropriating funds, the bill aims to enhance safety and functionality in community correction centers, potentially improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals in the correctional system. This legislative action signifies the state’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading its correctional facilities to meet contemporary needs.

Summary

House Bill 1092 proposes to reappropriate existing balances of capital improvement appropriations specifically for the Department of Corrections, focusing on the Division of Community Correction. The bill outlines the allocation of funds for various construction and repair projects including roof repairs, facility renovations, and building acquisitions in different regions, such as Searcy and Northwest Arkansas. The intended purpose is to utilize funds effectively to enhance the community correction infrastructure.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment regarding HB 1092 seems to be supportive, particularly among stakeholders concerned with the adequacy of correctional facilities. Legislators recognized the importance of maintaining infrastructure that supports rehabilitation and community correction. There has been little vocal opposition to the bill, suggesting a consensus on the need for such improvements, although some may raise concerns over budget allocation priorities in the face of other state needs.

Contention

While the bill appears to have general support, potential points of contention may arise around how these reallocated funds intersect with other funding priorities within the state budget. Some proponents might advocate for a greater emphasis on rehabilitation and community programs, while others may question the extent of investment in correctional infrastructure amidst needs for educational and health services. Therefore, the balance of allocation across state services could become a topic of future discussion.