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HB 1649

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE - ARKANSAS NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by DeAnn Vaught

Act 793 allocates $50 million for water and sewer treatment facilities in Arkansas, enhancing public health and safety through improved infrastructure by 2026.

Notification that HB1649 is now Act 793
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Bill Summary · HB 1649

Summary of House Bill 1649 (Act 793)

Overview

House Bill 1649, now known as Act 793, is a legislative measure passed by the Arkansas General Assembly to appropriate funds for water and sewer treatment facilities grants through the Department of Agriculture's Arkansas Natural Resources Commission for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1649 is to allocate financial resources to support the development and improvement of water and sewer treatment facilities across Arkansas. This funding aims to enhance public health and safety by ensuring that communities have access to adequate water and wastewater treatment services.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriation Amount: The bill appropriates $50,000,000 from the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program Fund to the Department of Agriculture for the fiscal year 2025-2026.
  • Compliance Requirements: The disbursement of these funds is subject to compliance with various state laws, including:
    • State Procurement Law
    • General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law
    • Revenue Stabilization Law
    • Regular Salary Procedures and Restrictions Act
  • Legislative Intent: The General Assembly emphasizes that the funds must be used in accordance with the reasons outlined in agency requests and legislative recommendations, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of appropriated funds.
  • Emergency Clause: An emergency clause is included, stating that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025. This is deemed necessary to prevent disruption in the provision of essential governmental programs related to water and sewer services.

Impact

The passage of HB 1649 is expected to significantly impact communities throughout Arkansas by:
- Providing critical funding for the construction and upgrading of water and sewer treatment facilities.
- Enhancing public health and environmental safety through improved water quality and sanitation services.
- Supporting local economies by ensuring that infrastructure meets the needs of residents and businesses.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 3, 2025
  • Passed: The bill underwent several readings and was passed by both the House and Senate on April 10, 2025.
  • Enrolled: The bill was correctly enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office on April 11, 2025.
  • Notification of Act: On April 17, 2025, it was officially notified that HB 1649 is now Act 793.

This summary provides a clear understanding of the intent, provisions, and implications of House Bill 1649, highlighting its importance for Arkansas's water and sewer infrastructure.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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