HB1391
An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Developmental Disabilities Services Reappropriation.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes to reappropriate existing capital improvement appropriations for the Arkansas Department of Human Services, specifically for the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services. The appropriations are primarily for facility improvements at the Booneville Human Development Center and other Human Development Centers across the state. These improvements include costs associated with demolition, construction, replacement, renovation, upgrade, and addition of facilities. The bill specifies that funds are to be payable from federal funds designated by the Chief Fiscal Officer. It also outlines disbursement controls, emphasizing adherence to state fiscal laws unless otherwise provided. The intent is for disbursed funds to align with the original legislative intent for these appropriations. An emergency clause is included to ensure the act is effective from July 1, 2025, to prevent potential harm to governmental programs.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals with developmental disabilities who will benefit from improved and potentially expanded facilities at state-run Human Development Centers. The Department of Human Services, specifically the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, will also benefit by being able to continue and complete capital improvement projects that enhance their operational capacity and service delivery. Furthermore, contractors and construction companies involved in demolition, renovation, and construction projects at these facilities would stand to benefit from the allocated funds.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill is unlikely to negatively impact specific groups directly. The funds are reappropriations, meaning they were previously allocated for specific purposes. The bill itself does not introduce new taxes or fees that would burden the general public. However, any delays or inefficiencies in the implementation of these capital improvement projects could indirectly affect the quality or availability of services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Additionally, the restriction that funds for maintenance and general operations cannot be used for these capital projects means those operational budgets remain separate and are not supplemented by this reappropriation.