SB371
To Transfer The Arkansas Rural Services Commission And The Rural Services Division Of The Arkansas Economic Development Commission To The Department Of Agriculture; And To Declare An Emergency.
Last Action (May 1, 2023): Sine Die adjournment
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AI-Generated Summary
Senate Bill 371 transfers the Arkansas Rural Services Commission and the Rural Services Division from the Arkansas Department of Commerce to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. The bill shifts the oversight and administrative authority for these entities from the Secretary of the Department of Commerce to the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture. It includes consequential amendments to various sections of the Arkansas Code to align the terminology and responsibilities with this departmental move. The legislation ensures that all existing rules, regulations, and personnel remain in effect throughout the transition. Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, which would allow the transfer to take effect immediately upon the governor's signature.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, which gains expanded jurisdiction and resources, and the rural development initiatives themselves, as they are being consolidated under a department potentially more aligned with the specific operational needs of rural areas. Administrative efficiency may also benefit from the centralization of these services.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entity negatively impacted is the Arkansas Department of Commerce, which loses the oversight and administrative control of the Rural Services Division and the associated commission. There may also be potential for temporary disruption or transition costs for personnel and organizational structures during the administrative move.
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