HB1026

House Bill 1026 is an appropriation bill that provides funding for the personal services and operating expenses of the Arkansas Department of Commerce's State Bank Department and State Securities Department for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The bill establishes maximum personnel levels for both departments, allowing for up to 78 regular employees for the State Bank Department and 36 regular employees for the State Securities Department. It appropriates over $12.5 million for the State Bank Department and approximately $4.1 million for the State Securities Department across various categories, including salaries, operations, and specific funds like the Investor Education Fund. The legislation includes standard provisions for compliance with state fiscal laws and procedures. Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause to ensure funding is available by July 1, 2024, to prevent disruption in the agencies' operations. The bill does not create new programs but provides the necessary budget authority to continue existing governmental functions.