Committee approves bill to consolidate state and federal development programs into two

The Senate Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development committee approved House Bill 1920, a cleanup measure presented by the Arkansas Development Finance Authority that would consolidate multiple state and federal development programs into two programs to simplify administration.

Brad Henry, vice president of development finance for the Arkansas Development Finance Authority, told the committee the change is administrative: "Really, we're just trying to do a little cleanup here. ... There's we're not asking for any new money. We're not asking for any new programs. The existing programs don't get any general revenue, so it doesn't affect the budget in questions. Governor's office is supportive of this." Henry said consolidation would make the programs easier for the public to understand and more efficient to run.

Senator Pitch introduced the bill and noted local ties to board membership; another attendee mentioned a Fort Smith board member previously discussed with the sponsor. A person signed up to speak declined to testify. Senator Pitch closed discussion, a motion and second were called (a second was recorded from Senator Johnson), and the committee passed the bill by voice vote; the transcript records the chair's announcement: "Senator house bill 19 20 is passed." No roll-call vote totals are recorded in the transcript.

Committee testimony emphasized no new funding or creation of new programs and noted Governor's office support. The committee took no amendments during this session and adjourned after completing its business.