Arkansas 2026 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB18

Introduced

4/1/26

Refer

4/8/26

Report Pass

4/14/26

Engrossed

4/15/26

Enrolled

4/16/26

Chaptered

4/23/26

Passed

4/23/26

Caption

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT - LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS BOARD APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR.

Impact

The enactment of SB 18 is set to influence state laws related to energy regulation and oversight of liquefied petroleum gas operations. By appropriating funds specifically for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board, the bill underscores the state's commitment to regulating this sector effectively, while enabling the board to fulfill its responsibilities in overseeing safety and operational standards within the liquefied petroleum gas industry. This legislative action is vital for ensuring that the necessary resources are available for inspection, regulation enforcement, and public safety regarding energy management.

Summary

Senate Bill 18 is a legislative act aimed at making an appropriation for personal services and operating expenses for the Department of Energy and Environment, specifically focusing on the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. The bill delineates the maximum number of employees and their salary rates, alongside operational expenses for the department. The total appropriation amounts to $721,554, which encompasses funding for regular employees, extra help, and operational costs, ensuring the board is adequately staffed and funded to carry out its intended functions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 18 appears largely supportive among the legislative members, as indicated by the voting outcome where the bill passed with 90 votes in favor and only 1 against during its third reading. This overwhelming support suggests a consensus on the necessity of funding for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board and a recognition of the importance of energy regulation and its implications for public safety and environmental standards. However, it can be noted that concerns may still exist regarding budget allocations and the efficient use of appropriated funds.

Contention

While SB 18 enjoyed substantial support, potential points of contention could arise from discussions surrounding budget management and the prioritization of funding for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board amid competing interests in other areas of energy and environmental legislation. Critics may question whether the budget is adequate to meet the challenges facing the liquefied petroleum gas sector or if resources might have been better allocated towards renewable energy initiatives. Additionally, the need for compliance with existing fiscalcontrol laws illustrates broader concerns about transparency and accountability in the disbursement of public funds.

Latest AR SB18 Activity

View All Events: AR 2026 Regular Session SB18

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB19

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1200

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Division Of Environmental Quality Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1087

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Oil And Gas Commission Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR SB38

An Act For The Department Of Health -licensing And Regulation Boards Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1163

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Boards And Commissions Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR SB275

To Amend The Law Concerning The Regulation Of Liquefied Petroleum Gases.

AR SB21

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Post-prison Transfer Board Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1232

An Act For The Department Of The Military Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1091

An Act For The Department Of Health Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR SB37

An Act For The Department Of Commerce Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB0390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.