Bill > HB1519

This bill modifies the Arkansas Code to expand the hiring and administrative powers of the Secretary of the Department of Commerce. Specifically, the bill changes language regarding the secretary's ability to delegate hiring authority to the heads of three state departments: the Insurance Department, the Bank Department, and the Securities Department. The bill shifts the secretary's hiring delegation from a mandatory requirement (previously "shall") to a permissive option (now "may"), giving the secretary more discretion in hiring decisions. Additionally, the bill clarifies that any such delegation of hiring authority must comply with state and federal employment laws. The changes also slightly modify the secretary's ability to serve as a director or administrative head of state entities under the Department of Commerce's control, ensuring that any such appointments still meet all statutory requirements for the position. These amendments appear designed to provide more flexibility in administrative hiring processes while maintaining appropriate legal constraints.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1519&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R