An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Aging, Adult, And Behavioral Health Services Reappropriation.
Impact
The bill's passage is significant as it provides necessary financial resources for improving facilities that serve aging and adult populations, as well as those with behavioral health needs. By ensuring the availability of these funds, HB 1371 supports the ongoing mission of the Department of Human Services to deliver crucial services to vulnerable demographics in the state. The reappropriation of funds is intended not only for immediate facility needs but also for long-term enhancements aimed at improving the quality of care and services provided.
Summary
House Bill 1371 aims to reappropriate funds for capital improvement projects specifically for the Arkansas Department of Human Services, focusing on its Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services. This bill addresses the need for renovations, upgrades, and construction within key facilities such as the Arkansas Health Center and the Arkansas State Hospital. The appropriations outlined in the bill are meant to ensure that essential programs can continue to operate effectively, with an effective date set for July 1, 2023, emphasizing urgent compliance due to constitutional mandates regarding fund appropriation periods.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 1371 appears to be supportive among lawmakers, as evidenced by a unanimous vote of 35 yeas to 0 nays during its third reading. This consensus reflects a recognition of the importance of maintaining and improving the capacity of the State's healthcare infrastructure, especially in light of the ongoing needs of elderly and disabled individuals. The emergency clause within the bill indicates a shared urgency among legislators to act promptly to preserve essential services.
Contention
While the voting history indicates broad support, there may still be underlying concerns regarding the fiscal management of state funds and the prioritization of projects within the Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services. Some stakeholders could argue about the sufficiency of the appropriated amounts or raise questions on project execution timelines. However, the bill's emphasis on compliance with legislative intent and existing fiscal control laws could mitigate these contentions, reinforcing accountability in the disbursement of state funds.
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.