AR SB18

Appropriates $543,438 to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor for fiscal year 2023-2024, including $359,100 for regular salaries, $118,820 for personal services matching, and $65,518 for operations and travel expenses.

Authorizes a maximum of 5 employees for the office: Chief of Staff/Legal Counsel ($95,000), 2 Lieutenant Governor Security Officers ($75,000 each), Communications/Policy Director ($70,000), and Executive Assistant/Scheduler ($40,000).

Permits the Lieutenant Governor to transfer appropriations between authorized line items with approval from the Chief Fiscal Officer and review by the Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee.

Amends Arkansas State Police duties to include protection of the Lieutenant Governor and his or her family, and authorizes the Lieutenant Governor to hire security personnel as full-time law enforcement officers with statewide jurisdiction.

Becomes effective July 1, 2023 as an emergency measure necessary for the agency's operation.