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HB1394

An Act For The Department Of Parks, Heritage, And Tourism - Division Of Heritage Reappropriation.

Passed

AI-Generated Summary

This bill, House Bill 1394, aims to reappropriate existing capital improvement funds for the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, specifically for its Division of Heritage. It reappropriates a balance of $750,000 for special maintenance projects. Additionally, it reappropriates $14,317,956 for the acquisition, management, stewardship, or preservation of state-owned lands, historic sites, buildings, structures, or objects. These reappropriations are effective from July 1, 2025. The bill outlines disbursement controls, stating that no contract may exceed available state treasury funds, but allows for the use of grants, donations, and available cash income to supplement project costs. It also clarifies that general operating funds are not to be used for these specific appropriated purposes. The legislative intent is for these funds to be used in accordance with budget recommendations and testimony. An emergency clause declares the act necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety, making its effective date July 1, 2025.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, specifically its Division of Heritage, as it allows for the continued use of previously allocated funds for specific capital improvement projects. This includes funding for special maintenance and the acquisition, management, stewardship, or preservation of state-owned lands and historic assets. The public, as a whole, could also benefit from the preservation and enhancement of these historical and natural resources.

Who Might Suffer?

This bill does not appear to directly identify or negatively impact specific groups or entities. Its purpose is to reallocate existing appropriations rather than create new financial obligations or restrictions that would foreseeably harm particular populations or organizations. The disbursement controls are in place to ensure responsible spending within the allocated funds.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us