RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL BIOSECURITY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 5 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 523 establishes a cost-sharing program for farmers to install biosecurity fencing, protecting crops and livestock from pests and diseases in Arkansas.

Reported from AEN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 300) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.

#agriculturalfencingcosts #appropriations($) #biosecurityfencingcost-sharingprogram #doa #reimbursements

# Summary of Senate Bill 523: Relating to Agricultural Biosecurity **Bill Number:** SB 523 **Introduced:** March 19, 2025 **Status:** Reported from AEN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 300) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM. ## Purpose and Intent Senate Bill 523 aims to enhance agricultural biosecurity measures in Arkansas by establishing a cost-sharing program for agricultural fencing. The bill seeks to improve the protection of crops and livestock from pests, diseases, and other threats, thereby promoting the overall health of the agricultural sector. ## Key Provisions - **Cost-Sharing Program:** The bill proposes the creation of a Biosecurity Fencing Cost-Sharing Program administered by the Department of Agriculture (DOA). This program will provide financial assistance to farmers and ranchers for the installation of biosecurity fencing. - **Appropriations:** The bill outlines specific appropriations to fund the cost-sharing program, although the exact dollar amounts are not specified in the current version. - **Reimbursement Mechanism:** The bill includes provisions for reimbursements to eligible participants who incur costs related to the installation of biosecurity fencing. ## Affected Parties - **Farmers and Ranchers:** The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be agricultural producers who are looking to enhance their biosecurity measures through fencing. - **Department of Agriculture (DOA):** The DOA will be responsible for administering the cost-sharing program and overseeing the reimbursement process. ## Procedural Aspects - The bill has been reported favorably from the Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources (AEN) committee and is currently set for further consideration in the Ways and Means (WAM) committee. - **Timeline:** Following its introduction on March 19, 2025, the bill has progressed through various legislative stages, including amendments and committee reviews. The timeline for implementation will depend on the appropriations and administrative setup once the bill is enacted. ## Conclusion Senate Bill 523 represents a proactive approach to strengthening agricultural biosecurity in Arkansas. By facilitating the installation of protective fencing, the bill aims to safeguard the state's agricultural resources and enhance the resilience of its farming community against potential threats.