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Bill Summary · HB 1445

Summary of House Bill 1445 (HB 1445)

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 1445
- Title: Relating to Education
- Status: Referred to EDN, PBS, FIN, referral sheet 4
- Introduced: February 10, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Appropriation ($), Education, Emergency Preparedness, School Safety

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1445 aims to address the regulation of short-term rentals in Arkansas. The bill seeks to limit the authority of local governments in enacting ordinances that could restrict property owners' rights to use their properties as short-term rentals. The intent is to promote tourism and protect property owners' rights, asserting that such rentals are vital to the state's economy.

Key Provisions

  1. Legislative Findings:

    • The bill emphasizes the constitutional rights of Arkansans to enjoy and use their property without undue government interference.
    • It recognizes the importance of short-term rentals for tourism and property marketability.

  2. Definitions:

    • Short-term Rental: Defined as a property rented for a fee for 30 days or less, excluding certain commercial uses (e.g., retail, restaurants).
    • Local Government: Refers to incorporated towns or cities.
    • Applicant: A property owner or agent managing a short-term rental.

  3. Restrictions on Local Governments:

    • Local governments are prohibited from enacting ordinances that effectively prohibit or limit the use of properties as short-term rentals.
    • Local governments may require registration of short-term rentals at a fee not exceeding $50, provided it does not restrict rental use.

  4. Application Review Process:

    • Local governments must review registration applications within 15 business days and notify applicants of any deficiencies.

  5. Enforcement and Penalties:

    • Local governments can suspend a short-term rental's operation for up to 30 days for repeated violations of local ordinances or up to 12 months for serious violations resulting in injury or death.

  6. Zoning Classification:

    • Short-term rentals will be classified as residential land use and must comply with applicable zoning requirements.

  7. Marketplace Regulation:

    • Local governments cannot regulate short-term rental marketplaces.

Impact

  • Property Owners: The bill primarily benefits property owners who wish to operate short-term rentals by reducing regulatory burdens imposed by local governments.
  • Local Governments: The bill limits the ability of local governments to regulate short-term rentals, potentially impacting their capacity to manage community standards and safety.
  • Tourism Industry: By facilitating short-term rentals, the bill aims to enhance tourism, which can have positive economic effects on local economies.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 10, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • February 12, 2025: Returned by the Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.
  • April 15, 2025: Withdrawn by the author and recommended for study in the Interim by the Committee on City, County & Local Affairs.

This summary provides an overview of HB 1445, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on property owners and local governance in Arkansas.

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

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