This bill amends existing laws regarding annual appropriations for local governments in Arkansas, specifically addressing the procedures that must be followed if a quorum court or municipal governing body fails to adopt a new annual appropriation ordinance by January 1. The new provisions require that if an annual appropriation ordinance is not passed by this deadline, the previous year's ordinance will automatically be readopted, allowing local governments to continue operations and pay employees' salaries at the previous year's levels until a new ordinance is established. Additionally, the bill specifies that certain compensations, such as per diem for justices of the peace and salaries for county judges, will not be paid until a new ordinance is adopted.

The bill also includes an emergency clause, emphasizing the necessity of these changes to ensure that local governments can maintain essential services and meet financial obligations to employees. The emergency declaration underscores the potential risks to public peace, health, and safety that could arise from the failure to pass an annual appropriation ordinance. The act will take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or under specified conditions if not acted upon.

Statutes affected:
SB 182: 14-14-904(b), 14-14-1204(c), 14-14-1205(a)
Act 24: 14-14-904(b), 14-14-1204(c), 14-14-1205(a)