HB1044

House Bill 1044 is an appropriations bill that establishes the budget for the Arkansas Court of Appeals for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. The bill authorizes funding for regular salaries for a maximum of 49 employees, including staff attorneys, law clerks, and administrative staff, as well as provisions for part-time 'Extra Help'. It provides a total appropriation of $6,585,195 to cover personal services, operating expenses, mileage reimbursement, legal counsel, and costs associated with special judges. The legislation outlines strict compliance requirements with state procurement and fiscal control laws. Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause to ensure the funding takes effect by July 1, 2026, to prevent disruption to court operations.