AR SR8

Authorizes Senator K. Ingram to introduce legislation amending Arkansas Code § 20-77-1905(a) to modify hospital exemptions from the state assessment fee on hospitals.

Excludes border city university affiliated pediatric teaching hospitals from the exemption for non-privately operated hospitals, effectively making them subject to the assessment fee.

Amends Arkansas Code § 20-77-1907(e) to allow hospitals that become newly subject to the assessment during a fiscal year to pay the required assessment and receive hospital access payments under rules established by the division.

Declares an emergency clause stating the assessment is necessary to provide additional pediatric care protections and ensure substantial funding for a pediatric hospital to meet the healthcare needs of Arkansas children.

Establishes the act becomes effective upon gubernatorial approval, expiration of the veto period if unsigned, or upon veto override by both houses.