HB1034
An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Aging, Adult, And Behavioral Health Services Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Appropriation.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes an appropriation of $250,000,000 to the Department of Human Services - Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services. The funds are designated for the construction of an additional State Behavioral Health Hospital. This appropriation is for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill also includes provisions for a fund transfer from the General Revenue Allotment Reserve Fund to a cash fund to support this construction. Additionally, the bill makes amendments to specific Arkansas Code sections related to the duties of prosecuting attorneys in mental health commitment hearings and the examination of defendants regarding mental disease or defect. It also consolidates several state institutions into a "Department of Human Services State Institutional System." The bill outlines disbursement controls and legislative intent for the appropriated funds. An emergency clause is included to ensure the act takes effect on July 1, 2025.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be individuals in Arkansas requiring state-funded behavioral health services, potentially leading to increased capacity and improved access to care. The Department of Human Services - Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services would directly benefit from the appropriation, enabling the construction of new facilities. The construction industry, including contractors and laborers, would also benefit from the significant capital expenditure for the new hospital.
Who Might Suffer?
The negatively impacted entities are less direct and more related to potential resource allocation. The State of Arkansas's General Revenue Allotment Reserve Fund will be reduced by $250,000,000. While the bill states that appropriations for Maintenance and General Operations shall not be used for these purposes, the overall fiscal impact of such a large appropriation could influence future budget decisions for other state agencies or programs. The existing behavioral health facilities might also experience a shift in patient population or resources as the new hospital becomes operational.