Watson’s update
LITTLE ROCK – With a vote of 79-15 and 2 members voting present, the House passed the appropriation to fund Medicaid and the Medicaid expansion program known as Arkansas Works. SB30 now heads the Governor’s desk for his signature.
Members also approved an appropriation for the DHS Division of Children and Family services which includes $7.3 million increase from last year. The additional funds will be directed to foster care cases.
The House voted in favor of the appropriation for the Department of Community Correction which includes a $1.7 million increase in funding.
The appropriation bill for the Office of Treasurer failed with a vote of 74-15 and 5 members voting present. Appropriation bills need 75 votes to pass.
An amendment previously added to the bill would allow taxpayers with 529 college savings plans to use withdrawals for tuition at a public, private or religious elementary or secondary school. There was testimony on the House floor today stating the amendment was needed to correct an inconsistency with federal and state language.
The House will convene again today at 11a.m. You can watch all House floor proceedings live at www.arkansashouse.org.