This bill amends the Arkansas Code to grant the Secretary of the Department of Commerce increased authority in the hiring and contracting processes for employees within the State Insurance Department, State Bank Department, and State Securities Department. Specifically, it modifies the existing language regarding the Secretary's role, allowing them to serve as the director or head of any state entity under the Department of Commerce, provided they meet all statutory requirements. The bill also changes the language regarding the delegation of hiring authority, allowing the Secretary to delegate this responsibility to specific commissioners rather than mandating it.

Key changes include the deletion of the requirement for the Secretary to be appointed and the insertion of language that allows them to serve in a directorial capacity if they meet the necessary qualifications. Additionally, the bill shifts the Secretary's authority from a mandatory delegation of hiring to a permissive one, allowing for flexibility in how hiring decisions are made while still adhering to state and federal laws.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1519 Original - 2-18-2025 01:22 PM: 25-43-303(e), 25-43-303(g)
Old version HB1519 V2 - 3-11-2025 09:48 AM: 25-43-303(e), 25-43-303(g)
HB 1519: 25-43-303(e), 25-43-303(g)