This bill amends the Arkansas Code to grant the Secretary of the Department of Commerce increased authority in the hiring and contracting processes for the State Insurance Department, State Bank Department, and State Securities Department. Specifically, it allows the Secretary to participate in these processes and makes adjustments to the language regarding the Secretary's role and responsibilities. The bill modifies Section 25-43-303(e) by replacing the phrase "Be appointed" with "Except as provided under subdivision (f)(1) of this section, serve," clarifying the Secretary's position as the director of state entities under the Department of Commerce, provided they meet statutory requirements.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 25-43-303(g)(1) to change the Secretary's authority from a mandatory "shall" to a discretionary "may" when it comes to delegating hiring decisions and employment contracts to specific department officers, including the Insurance Commissioner, Bank Commissioner, and Securities Commissioner. This change introduces flexibility in the delegation of hiring authority while ensuring compliance with any applicable state or federal laws.

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