AR HB1196

Establishes the Housing Welfare Reform Act of 2023, requiring public housing authorities to implement work requirements for able-bodied adults receiving housing assistance as a condition of being chartered and operating in Arkansas.

Defines "able-bodied adult" to exclude individuals under 19 or over 64 years old, those medically unfit for employment, pregnant persons, parents/caretakers of young or disabled children, those receiving unemployment compensation, and those in addiction treatment programs.

Requires able-bodied adults to work at least 20 hours per week, participate in a work program, volunteer 20+ hours weekly, or participate in a workfare program to maintain housing assistance eligibility.

Mandates housing authorities conduct screenings of applicants and tenants, create employability plans for eligible adults, and terminate assistance within 60 days for non-compliance with work requirements.

Requires housing authorities to request federal approval from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development by January 1, 2025, and resubmit within 24 months if denied; effective January 1, 2024.