AN ACT FOR THE ARKANSAS STATE CLAIMS COMMISSION APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR.

HB 1012 authorizes funding for the Arkansas State Claims Commission for the 2026-2027 fiscal year to cover its operating expenses and employee salaries. The bill allocates approximately $764,000 for staff wages and operational costs, including up to 10 regular employees such as a director and commissioners. Additionally, it provides a $2.25 million appropriation to pay claims awarded to the surviving spouses and dependent children of state employees killed in the line of duty, as well as to settle smaller controversial and non-controversial claims. The legislation also includes an $8,000 allocation for the Firefighter Benefit Review Panel and establishes compliance requirements for all fund disbursements.