RELATING TO DISTRICT COURT JUDGES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

Senate Bill 267 repeals outdated laws on alternative motor fuels, simplifying regulations and impacting businesses and consumers in the alternative fuel sector.

Reported from JDC (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 66) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading and referral to WAM.

#districtcourtjudges #judiciarypackage #thirdcircuit

# Summary of Senate Bill 267 (SB 267) ## Bill Overview **Title:** Relating to District Court Judges **Bill Number:** SB 267 **Introduced:** February 20, 2025 **Status:** Reported from JDC with recommendation of passage on Second Reading and referral to WAM. **Classification:** Bill **Subject:** District Court Judges, Judiciary Package, Third Circuit ## Purpose and Intent Senate Bill 267 aims to **repeal the Arkansas Alternative Motor Fuel Development Act** and the associated **Alternative Motor Fuel Development Fund**. This legislative action is intended to eliminate outdated provisions related to alternative motor fuels, thereby streamlining the state's regulatory framework concerning motor fuel development. ## Key Provisions - **Repeal of Existing Law:** The bill proposes the complete repeal of Arkansas Code Title 15, Chapter 10, Subchapter 9, which encompasses the Arkansas Alternative Motor Fuel Development Act. - **Definitions and Regulations:** The bill includes definitions for various terms related to alternative fuels, such as: - Compressed natural gas - Liquefied natural gas - Electric vehicles - Refueling stations for alternative fuels - **Rebate Program:** The bill previously included provisions for rebates for the installation of refueling stations for alternative fuels, although these provisions will be eliminated with the repeal. ## Impact - **Affected Entities:** The repeal will primarily affect businesses and individuals involved in the alternative motor fuel sector, including refueling station operators and consumers of alternative fuels. - **Regulatory Simplification:** By removing the act and fund, the bill aims to reduce regulatory burdens and potentially redirect resources to more current energy initiatives. ## Legislative Timeline - **February 20, 2025:** Bill introduced and read for the first time. - **February 26, 2025:** Bill passed the second reading and was referred to the House. - **March 10, 2025:** Bill passed the third reading and was ordered to be enrolled. - **March 12, 2025:** Notification that SB 267 is now Act 295. ## Conclusion Senate Bill 267 represents a significant shift in Arkansas's approach to alternative motor fuels by repealing outdated legislation. This move is expected to simplify the regulatory landscape and allow for a more focused approach to current energy initiatives. The bill has progressed through the legislative process and is on track to become law.