Gov. Hutchinson Signs Three Executive Orders Monday

Governor Hutchinson signs 3 Executive Orders regarding infrastructure, state audits, power disruption

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Governor Asa Hutchinson signed Executive Orders on Monday that will provide recommendations for use of federal infrastructure funds, align audits in certain executive branch agencies and create the Energy Resources Council to improve coordination and planning during extreme weather and other emergencies that threaten the state’s power and communications grids.

“Each of these Executive Orders will improve coordination and help guide resources within state government,” Gov. Hutchinson said.

The Infrastructure Planning Advisory Committee will recommend how to best use our portion of the federal money that is being returned to the state. The winter storms in February were a reminder of the toll that a natural disaster can take, which is why I have created the Arkansas Energy Resources Council. The members of the council will facilitate ongoing conversations between state agencies and leaders in the energy sector so that we are as prepared as possible to deal with extreme events that can cause power outages and interfere with communication.

The third executive order requires certain auditors in cabinet-level departments to report to the Office of Internal Audit. This change will further enhance the integrity of our audits and give taxpayers confidence that state agencies are following the best practices of internal auditors.

GOV. ASA HUTCHINSON

These are the three executive orders and an explanation of each:

• EO 21-19 creates the Infrastructure Planning Advisory Committee. With this order, the Governor creates the Infrastructure Planning Advisory Committee composed of state agency personnel to identify best practices and procedures to ensure the State of Arkansas realizes the maximum relief and benefits available.
• EO 21-20 amends EO 18-01 regarding the Office of Internal Audit. This executive order will require auditors to functionally report to the Office of Internal Audit.
• EO 21-05 creates the Arkansas Energy Resources Council, a recommendation from the Energy Resources Planning Task Force, which Governor Hutchinson created on March 3, 2021, after historic winter storms in Arkansas. The Council will facilitate technical and policy discussion among regulators and energy stakeholders and will develop and maintain educational materials on best practices regarding preparedness and communication in advance and during events that may disrupt the supply of critical energy resources.