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Bill Summary · HB 1441

Summary of House Bill 1441 (Act 214)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1441, now known as Act 214, aims to amend the existing laws governing the Arkansas Coordinate System of 1983. The primary intent of this legislation is to enhance the precision and coverage of geodetic control stations throughout Arkansas, thereby improving the utility of the Arkansas Plane Coordinate System for land surveyors and other stakeholders.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments and repeals related to the Arkansas Coordinate System:

  1. Amendment of Powers and Duties:

    • The State Surveyor's responsibilities are expanded to ensure the triangulation and leveling network covers areas lacking sufficient geodetic control stations.

  2. Designation of the Coordinate System:

    • The Arkansas Plane Coordinate System 1983 is officially designated as the system for defining geographic positions within the state, based on the National Spatial Reference System.

  3. Zone Creation and Designation:

    • The state is divided into two zones:
      • North Zone: Includes specific counties such as Baxter, Benton, and Pulaski.
      • South Zone: Includes counties like Arkansas, Ashley, and Jefferson.
    • Each zone has distinct designations for land descriptions.

  4. Coordinates Definition:

    • The bill specifies how coordinates are expressed (in feet or meters) and establishes the conversion standards between these units.

  5. Repeals:

    • Several sections of the Arkansas Code related to the technical definitions and markings of the coordinate system have been repealed, streamlining the legal framework.

  6. Land Description Guidelines:

    • Provisions are included for describing land that spans both coordinate zones, allowing for flexibility in referencing coordinates.

Impact

The amendments made by HB 1441 will primarily affect:
- Land Surveyors: Improved access to geodetic control stations will enhance the accuracy of land surveys.
- State Agencies: Agencies involved in land management and planning will benefit from a more reliable coordinate system.
- Property Owners and Developers: Clearer and more accurate land descriptions will facilitate property transactions and development projects.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 10, 2025
  • Passed: The bill underwent several readings and amendments before passing both the House and Senate on February 26, 2025.
  • Enacted: The bill was signed into law and is now officially Act 214 as of February 27, 2025.

This legislation represents a significant update to the Arkansas Coordinate System, ensuring that it meets modern surveying needs and enhances the accuracy of geographic data within the state.

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

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