Bill > HB1725

This bill amends Arkansas law to establish new requirements for sheriff compensation and documentation of training and experience. Specifically, the bill introduces a provision that requires the county quorum court to set a sheriff's annual salary based on their professional qualifications. If a newly elected or appointed sheriff does not have the required law enforcement training or experience as certified by the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy or meet eligibility standards for law enforcement employment, their salary will be set at the minimum legal rate. The bill mandates that within ten days of election or appointment, sheriffs must file documentation with the county clerk demonstrating their training status: either showing compliance with certification requirements, proving eligibility as a law enforcement officer, or acknowledging a lack of required training. The county clerk must then provide these documents to the quorum court before the sheriff takes office. The bill also allows sheriffs to subsequently file updated documentation if they acquire the necessary training, which the quorum court may consider when determining compensation. Notably, these provisions will not take effect until December 31, 2026, giving jurisdictions time to prepare for the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1725&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R