Senate Bill 119 Summary

• Creates the Commission on the Status of Women as a new state body under Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 84, to conduct ongoing studies of women's issues and share findings with similar commissions in other states

• Establishes a 9-member commission with 3 members appointed by the Governor, 3 by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and 3 by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, with staggered initial terms of 1, 2, and 3 years and subsequent appointments for 3-year terms

• Requires the commission to meet at least quarterly in Pulaski County at the State Capitol or via teleconference/web conference, with meetings requiring a majority quorum and members receiving no compensation but reimbursement for expenses from non-state funds

• Assigns the commission duties including studying women's status in Arkansas, informing leaders and media of women's issues, serving as a liaison between government and private groups, acting as an information clearinghouse, advising the Governor and General Assembly on legislation affecting women, and promoting collaboration among local women's commissions

• Requires the commission to submit biennial reports by October 1 of even-numbered years beginning in 2012 to the Governor and legislative leaders, and authorizes acceptance of gifts, donations, grants, and federal funds deposited with the State Treasurer