Arkansas House Bill HCR1007

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/6/23
• Engrossed: 2/8/23
• Passed: 2/14/23

Caption

To Provide For An Extension Of The Regular Session Of The Ninety-fourth General Assembly; And To Provide For A Recess Of The General Assembly.

Impact

The adoption of HCR1007 has significant implications for the legislative process in Arkansas. By extending the regular session, lawmakers have additional time to consider vital issues including proposed constitutional amendments and to address any outstanding vetoes or legislative errors. This resolution underscores the importance of flexibility in the legislative calendar, allowing for a more thorough examination of potential laws and amendments that may require additional discussion or revision.

Voting

HCR1007 was read and concurred in with a unanimous vote of 35 yeas to 0 nays on February 13, 2023. This overwhelming support indicates a strong consensus among legislators on the importance of extending the session to enhance legislative efficiency and responsiveness to the needs of the state.

Summary

HCR1007 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the Ninety-Fourth General Assembly of the State of Arkansas, introduced to provide an extension of the regular session until noon on May 1, 2023. The resolution allows for a recess of the assembly starting at the close of business on April 7, 2023, with provisions that enable the General Assembly to reconvene if necessary. The rationale behind the resolution is to ensure that the assembly remains available for necessary communications regarding bill actions, including veto notifications and error corrections from the Governor during this extended period.

Contention

During discussions of HCR1007, some members raised concerns regarding the necessity of the extension and the potential for political maneuvering within the legislative framework. While the resolution was ultimately passed unanimously, the deliberations highlighted differing perspectives on the use of extended legislative sessions. Critics of ongoing extensions often cite potential inefficiencies and the risk of diminishing the urgency of legislative priorities.