This bill proposes an appropriation of up to $250,000,000 to the Department of Human Services - Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services for the construction of an additional State Behavioral Health Hospital for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The funding will be sourced from the General Revenue Allotment Reserve Fund, with a transfer mandated to occur immediately upon the bill's effective date. The provisions for this funding are set to be in effect from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

Additionally, the bill includes amendments to various sections of the Arkansas Code, specifically regarding the responsibilities of prosecuting attorneys in mental health hearings. Notably, references to the Arkansas State Hospital being located in Pulaski County and Little Rock are deleted, indicating a potential shift in focus or recognition of the hospital's broader role. The bill also establishes disbursement controls to ensure that funds are used appropriately and in compliance with existing fiscal laws. An emergency clause is included, emphasizing the urgency of the bill's implementation to avoid disruption in essential governmental programs.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1034 V2 - 1-15-2025 10:23 AM:
Old version HB1034 Original - 11-20-2024 03:18 PM:
HB 1034: