No Solar Panels on Fertile Farmland Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Mary Miller

HR 1080 protects Arkansas's fertile farmland by banning solar panel installations, ensuring agricultural land remains available for food production and sustainability.

Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H519)

# Summary of HR 1080: No Solar Panels on Fertile Farmland Act of 2025 ## Purpose and Intent HR 1080, titled the **No Solar Panels on Fertile Farmland Act of 2025**, aims to protect fertile farmland in Arkansas from being converted into solar panel installations. The bill reflects a growing concern about the impact of renewable energy projects on agricultural land, emphasizing the importance of preserving farmland for food production and agricultural sustainability. ## Key Provisions - **Prohibition on Solar Installations**: The bill specifically prohibits the installation of solar panels on land classified as fertile farmland. This includes any land that is currently used for agricultural purposes or has the potential for agricultural use. - **Definition of Fertile Farmland**: The legislation provides a clear definition of what constitutes fertile farmland, which will guide enforcement and compliance. - **Exceptions**: The bill may outline specific exceptions or conditions under which solar installations could be permitted, although these details are not specified in the current summary. ## Affected Parties - **Farmers and Agricultural Producers**: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are farmers and agricultural producers who rely on fertile land for their livelihoods. The bill aims to safeguard their interests against encroachment by renewable energy projects. - **Renewable Energy Developers**: Companies and organizations involved in the development of solar energy projects may be adversely affected, as they will face restrictions on where they can site solar installations. - **Local Governments**: Local authorities may need to adjust zoning laws and land use regulations in response to the new restrictions imposed by this bill. ## Procedural Aspects - **Introduced**: The bill was introduced on **March 13, 2025**. - **Legislative Actions**: - **March 13, 2025**: The bill was read for the first time, rules were suspended, and it was read a second time before being referred to the Committee on House Management. - **March 17, 2025**: The bill was returned by the committee with a recommendation to pass. - **April 2, 2025**: The bill was read and adopted by the House of Representatives. ## Conclusion HR 1080 represents a legislative effort to balance the growth of renewable energy with the preservation of Arkansas's agricultural resources. By prohibiting solar panel installations on fertile farmland, the bill seeks to protect the state's agricultural heritage and ensure that farmland remains available for food production. For further updates, stakeholders are encouraged to monitor the bill's progress through the Arkansas General Assembly.