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SB 443

RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 6 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 443 updates licensure for abstracters and home inspectors in Arkansas, enhancing oversight and streamlining processes to improve regulatory efficiency.

Senate Conferees Appointed: Inouye Chair; Wakai, DeCoite Co-Chairs; DeCorte.
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Bill Summary · SB 443

Summary of Senate Bill 443: Relating to Agricultural Lands

Bill Number: SB 443
Introduced: March 12, 2025
Status: Senate Conferees Appointed
Classification: Bill
Subject: Agricultural Lands, Department of Agriculture (DOA), Solar, Wind

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 443 aims to amend existing laws concerning the duties of the State Board of Appraisers, Abstracters, and Home Inspectors in Arkansas. The bill seeks to update the licensure requirements for abstracters and home inspectors, streamline processes, and enhance regulatory oversight in these fields. Additionally, it declares an emergency, indicating the need for immediate implementation of these changes.

Key Provisions

  1. Amendments to Licensure Requirements:

    • Registered Abstracter Requirements:
      • Individuals or firms operating in one county must employ a registered abstracter.
      • Firms operating in multiple counties must have at least one registered abstracter for each county.
    • Execution of Abstract Certificates: Only registered abstracters may execute or attest to the accuracy of abstracts.

  2. Application and Renewal Process:

    • The bill modifies the notification process for applicants regarding examination schedules and renewal notices, allowing for communication via mail or email.
    • Renewal notices must be sent 30 to 60 days before certificate expiration.

  3. Temporary Certificates:

    • The bill clarifies the process for issuing temporary certificates of registration for abstracters.

  4. Repeal of Certain Provisions:

    • The bill repeals outdated provisions regarding the requirement for a seal for licensed abstracters and the admissibility of abstracts as evidence in court.

  5. Investigative Procedures:

    • The bill mandates that the State Board contract independent investigators for any necessary investigations, ensuring that board members do not perform investigative tasks themselves.

  6. Annual Reporting:

    • The board is required to file an annual report detailing complaints, investigations, and findings to the Senate and House Committees on State Agencies and Governmental Affairs.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The bill primarily impacts individuals and firms involved in abstracting and home inspection services in Arkansas, as well as the regulatory framework governing these professions.
    • It also affects the State Board of Appraisers, Abstracters, and Home Inspectors by altering its operational procedures and responsibilities.

  • Emergency Clause:

    • The inclusion of an emergency clause indicates that the changes are intended to take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting the urgency of updating the regulatory framework.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 12, 2025: Bill introduced and passed first reading.
  • April 15, 2025: Passed in the House with amendments and returned to the Senate.
  • April 22, 2025: Notification that SB 443 is now Act 949, indicating successful passage and enactment.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of SB 443, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on stakeholders involved in agricultural lands and related regulatory practices in Arkansas.

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

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