AUDITOR GENERAL-DOGE ACT

104th Regular Session Introduced by John Cabello and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 1266 regulates short-term vacation rentals in Arkansas, establishing guidelines, enforcement roles, and penalties to enhance safety and accountability for owners and renters.

Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Chris Miller

# Summary of House Bill 1266: Relating to Short-Term Vacation Rentals ## Bill Overview **Bill Number:** HB 1266 **Introduced On:** January 27, 2025 **Status:** Referred to TOU, JHA/CPC, FIN **Classification:** Bill **Subject Areas:** Appropriations, Community Associations, Condominiums, Counties, DCCA, Enforcement Agency, Establishment, Penalties, Short-Term Vacation Rentals House Bill 1266 aims to regulate short-term vacation rentals in Arkansas, addressing various aspects of their operation, enforcement, and penalties associated with non-compliance. ## Main Purpose and Intent The primary intent of HB 1266 is to establish a framework for the management and regulation of short-term vacation rentals across the state. This includes provisions for enforcement, penalties for violations, and appropriations for necessary administrative functions. ## Key Provisions - **Regulatory Framework:** The bill proposes the establishment of guidelines for short-term vacation rentals, including registration requirements and operational standards. - **Enforcement Mechanisms:** It outlines the roles of local enforcement agencies in monitoring compliance and addressing violations. - **Penalties:** The bill specifies penalties for non-compliance with the established regulations, although specific amounts and types of penalties are not detailed in the provided text. - **Appropriations:** The bill includes appropriations for personal services and operating expenses related to the enforcement of these regulations. ## Affected Parties - **Property Owners:** Individuals who own properties intended for short-term rental will be directly impacted by the new regulations and compliance requirements. - **Local Governments:** Counties and municipalities will be responsible for enforcing the new regulations, which may require additional resources and staffing. - **Tourists and Renters:** Visitors utilizing short-term rentals will benefit from improved standards and accountability in rental operations. ## Procedural Aspects - **Legislative Process:** The bill has undergone several readings and has been passed by both the House and Senate. It was marked as an emergency measure, indicating the urgency of its implementation. - **Timeline:** The bill was filed on January 27, 2025, and has progressed rapidly through the legislative process, with significant actions occurring in early February 2025. ## Conclusion House Bill 1266 represents a significant step towards regulating short-term vacation rentals in Arkansas, aiming to balance the interests of property owners, local governments, and the community. By establishing clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms, the bill seeks to enhance the safety and quality of short-term rental experiences in the state.