AR HB1992

Department of Correction reimburses counties from the County Jail Reimbursement Fund when unable to accept inmates due to insufficient bed space, with reimbursement rates set by the Chief Fiscal Officer after consultation with Arkansas Legislative Audit and the Governor, including transportation costs.

Reimbursement begins on the sentencing date if judgment and commitment order is received within 21 days; if received after 22 days, reimbursement begins on the date the department receives the order.

Department of Community Correction reimburses counties for inmates held in county jails due to bed space shortages or those confined under prerelease programs, with reimbursement beginning on sentencing or probation placement date under the same 21-day receipt requirement.

Counties must maintain documentation for three calendar years confirming the number of days state inmates were physically housed in county jails, subject to review by Arkansas Legislative Audit; invoices must be certified by county sheriffs and paid within five business days.

Reimbursement rate increases by $5.00 per day per inmate effective upon enactment, then increases by $1.00 per day per inmate each January 1st for 25 years, starting from the January 1, 2017 rate; medical care reimbursement requires prior approval except in true emergencies.