Bill > HB1115

This bill is an appropriations act for the Arkansas Rehabilitation Services within the Department of Commerce for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, establishing detailed funding and staffing allocations across multiple program areas. The bill authorizes a total appropriation of approximately $69.9 million, which includes funding for regular operations ($61.47 million), the Increasing Capabilities Access Network - Federal program ($818,892), the Statewide Disability Telecommunications Equipment Program ($646,668), the People with Disabilities Program ($30,000), the Technology Equipment Revolving Loan Program ($750,000), and Cash Operations ($356,542). It also sets maximum employee staffing levels across various grades and positions, including 78 full-time employees in the main operations and 21 full-time employees in the Division of State Services for the Blind, with additional provisions for 19 and 30 part-time or temporary employees in these respective divisions. The bill includes an emergency clause to ensure the appropriations can take effect on July 1, 2025, and mandates that all fund disbursements comply with state procurement, accounting, and budgetary laws. An additional $6 million is allocated specifically for Blind Services Grants, demonstrating the state's commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities through rehabilitation and support services.

Budget and Finance

Joint Budget Committee (Joint)

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1115&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R