On Tuesday, several bills were advanced by House committees. The House Public Transportation Committee moved HB1046 forward. This bill proposes the creation of a Blue Envelope Program aimed at improving communication between individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and law enforcement during vehicle-related encounters. The bill directs the Department of Finance and Administration to develop a specially designed blue envelope containing a driver’s essential documents, with communication guidelines on the exterior to help officers understand and adjust their approach when interacting with a driver with ASD.
The House Judiciary Committee advanced HB1204. This bill outlines the recovery of damages for past medical expenses incurred by an injured party. It specifies that only costs actually paid by or on behalf of the plaintiff, or those that remain unpaid and for which the plaintiff or a third party is legally responsible, can be included in the recovery.
The House Revenue and Taxation Committee moved HB1074 forward. This bill stipulates that funds from the Property Tax Relief Trust Fund cannot be used for purposes other than property tax relief unless approved by a ¾ majority in both houses of the General Assembly. Currently, a simple majority is required.
The House Education Committee advanced HB1085. This bill amends the Arkansas Brighter Future Fund Plan Act, allowing funds from the tax-deferred tuition savings program to be rolled over into a Roth individual retirement account (IRA).
The House will reconvene on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.