An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Parole Board Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.
Impact
The enactment of SB44 will enable the Department of Corrections to maintain and potentially enhance its parole management operations. This includes funding for salaries, operational expenses, and other necessary resources to ensure the effective operation of the Parole Board. The bill mandates compliance with existing state laws concerning appropriations and has an emergency clause to ensure immediate effectivity, emphasizing the urgency of funding for the Department's operations for the coming fiscal year.
Summary
Senate Bill 44 is a legislative measure focused on appropriating funds for the personal services and operating expenses of the Arkansas Department of Corrections - Parole Board for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The bill outlines the maximum number of employees and their respective salary grades, which reflects the state's commitment to resource allocation for correctional services and parole management. A total amount appropriated under this bill is approximately $2.43 million, indicating a significant investment in the administrative and operational functions of the Parole Board.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB44 appears to be largely favorable among legislators, as it reflects a proactive approach to resource management within the Department of Corrections. Given that it passed with a unanimous vote of 95-0, the bill was well-received, indicating a collective agreement on the importance of funding for correctional services. This positive reception suggests a recognition of the essential role the Parole Board plays in the state’s criminal justice system.
Contention
While the bill seems to face little opposition, it does highlight broader conversations about the state's correctional policies and funding strategies. Some may argue about the sufficiency of the appropriations or the need for comprehensive reform in how parole services are structured and funded. However, the main contention may arise from ongoing discussions about the effectiveness of current correctional practices and whether increased funding will lead to significant improvements in parole outcomes.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.