SB25

This bill is an appropriations act that establishes the budget and staffing levels for the Arkansas Department of Commerce - State Insurance Department for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. It outlines funding allocations for various departmental functions, including general operations, funeral services, insurance fraud investigations, prepaid funeral benefits, and health information counseling. The bill also authorizes a maximum of 188 full-time regular employees and 19 temporary or part-time staff members. Additionally, it provides specific appropriations for the payment of various employee claims—including those for state, public school, county, and city employees—and for tax or fee refunds. The legislation serves to ensure the operational continuity and financial management of the state's insurance regulatory and oversight functions. It identifies the various funds from which these appropriations are to be drawn, such as the State Insurance Department Trust Fund and the Workers' Compensation Revolving Fund.