Energy

This bill authorizes funding for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board within Arkansas's Department of Energy and Environment for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. It allocates $721,554 to cover salaries for up to six permanent staff members, temporary workers, and various operational expenses like maintenance and travel. The funds are drawn from the existing Liquefied Petroleum Gas Fund and must be spent in accordance with state budget and procurement laws.

This bill, now Act 61, provides funding for the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment's Oil and Gas Commission and Office of the State Geologist for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. It authorizes the hiring of specific numbers of full-time and temporary employees, including geologists, inspectors, and administrative staff, to carry out their duties. The legislation appropriates approximately $4.7 million for salaries, operations, and maintenance, while also allocating $12.5 million from a dedicated fund for well plugging expenses related to abandoned or orphaned wells. Additionally, the bill sets aside $200,000 for refunds and reimbursements to the commission.