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Committee clears National Guard 'cleanup' bill to speed small life‑insurance payouts to families
Summary
HB 18‑94, described as cleanup language to confirm the adjutant general as sponsor of a National Guard Association small life insurance program, was approved; a guard colonel said the program can pay families up to $50,000 within 24 hours when federal benefits are delayed.
The committee voted to advance House Bill 18‑94, which updates statutory language to clarify state sponsorship of a small life‑insurance program offered through the National Guard Association and to streamline administration.
Representative House introduced the measure as technical cleanup to make clear that the program is "sponsored by the adjutant general, and the adjutant general delegates the paperwork." Colonel Jeff Wood of the Arkansas National Guard explained the program is "somewhat unique" and "it goes up to $50,000 and it pays within 24 hours," providing immediate funds to families when federal Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) processing is delayed.
Witnesses and the sponsor characterized the bill as supportive of service members and administrative clarity rather than a substantive expansion of benefit. The committee moved and approved a 'do pass' recommendation; Representative House said he or another member would carry the bill on the floor if needed.
Next steps: HB 18‑94 was advanced to the Senate floor with a committee 'do pass' recommendation.
