SB344

Senate Bill 344 mandates the transfer of the Healthy Employee Lifestyle Program from the Arkansas Department of Health to the Department of Transformation and Shared Services. This transfer includes all associated personnel, property, records, contracts, and funding. The bill amends the definition of the program and updates administrative language regarding the program's management and oversight. It requires all state entities to allow employee participation in the program by July 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill outlines the criteria for rewards, including up to 24 hours of paid leave per year for employees who meet the program's requirements. It also clarifies that such leave is not compensable upon termination and mandates that state entities maintain areas for walking exercise where practicable.