Politics without the BS

Republican Sponsorship

HB1389

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Developmental Disabilities Services - Jonesboro Human Development Center Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

Passed

AI-Generated Summary

This bill appropriates $20,000,000 from cash funds to the Department of Human Services, specifically for the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services. The funds are designated for the continued implementation of a master plan at the Jonesboro Human Development Center. This includes costs related to planning, demolition, construction, replacement, renovation, upgrade, and addition of facilities. The appropriation is for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill mandates strict compliance with various state fiscal control laws and regulations. It also states legislative intent that disbursed funds align with budget justifications and committee records. An emergency clause is included, declaring the act necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety, with an effective date of July 1, 2025. The purpose is to ensure the timely operation of the agency and its programs.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the individuals served by the Jonesboro Human Development Center and the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services within the Department of Human Services. This includes individuals with developmental disabilities who will benefit from the continued implementation of the master plan, potentially leading to improved facilities and services. The construction and renovation aspects of the appropriation would also benefit contractors, developers, and laborers involved in the building projects. The Department of Human Services itself benefits from the allocated funds to carry out its mission and operational needs at the center.

Who Might Suffer?

This bill does not explicitly identify groups or entities that would be negatively impacted. However, in a general sense, any appropriation of public funds could indirectly lead to a diversion of resources that might otherwise be used for other state programs or services. Additionally, if the master plan involves significant demolition or construction, nearby residents or businesses might experience temporary disruptions such as noise, traffic, or altered access during the renovation and building phases.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us