This bill amends existing laws to facilitate the distribution of funds from the Municipal Aid Fund, turnback funds, and county sales and use tax revenues to newly incorporated municipalities in Arkansas. It specifically changes the language regarding how the population of these municipalities is calculated when they incorporate during a year in which a federal decennial census is conducted. The bill replaces the phrase "If a municipality incorporates during a year in which a federal decennial census is conducted" with "When a municipality incorporates" and mandates that the population be calculated by the Arkansas Geographic Information Systems Office based on the most recent federal decennial census data.

Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, stating that the immediate need for accurate population data is essential for the distribution of municipal turnback funds and county sales and use tax revenues. It emphasizes that without a proper procedure, newly incorporated municipalities may face delays in receiving necessary funds, which could hinder their ability to provide essential services to their residents. The act is set to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or under specific conditions if not vetoed.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1522 V2 - 2-25-2025 09:49 AM: 19-5-601(c), 26-74-313(d), 27-70-207(c)
Old version HB1522 Original - 2-18-2025 01:30 PM: 19-5-601(c), 26-74-313(d), 27-70-207(c)
HB 1522: 19-5-601(c), 26-74-313(d), 27-70-207(c)
Act 620: 19-5-601(c), 26-74-313(d), 27-70-207(c)