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SB 400

RELATING TO FIREARMS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 1 co-sponsor

Senate Bill 400 enhances Arkansas' fair-funding program by ensuring accountability for livestock shows and fairs, promoting transparency and equitable fund distribution.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 400

Summary of Senate Bill 400 (SB 400)

Overview

Senate Bill 400 (SB 400) is a legislative proposal introduced in the Arkansas Senate on March 6, 2025. The bill aims to amend existing laws related to the fair-funding program administered by the Department of Agriculture, specifically concerning financial assistance for livestock shows and fairs.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 400 is to enhance the fair-funding program by establishing clearer requirements for recipients of financial assistance. This includes ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of state funds allocated for livestock shows and fairs.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Creation of Fair-Funding Program:

    • Establishes a fair-funding program within the Department of Agriculture to provide financial assistance to junior livestock shows, county fairs, district fairs, and the Arkansas State Fair and Livestock Show.

  2. Funding Distribution:

    • Funding will be based on a historical average of total fair funding provided to previous recipients, ensuring an equitable distribution of available funds.

  3. Recipient Requirements:

    • Recipients of fair funding must:
      • Submit an annual financial report detailing the use of state funds.
      • Maintain records of expenditures.
      • Provide proof of yearly continuing education as per department guidelines.
    • Failure to comply with these requirements may result in a decrease in future funding.

  4. Audit Provisions:

    • Recipients are subject to audits by the Arkansas Legislative Audit to ensure compliance with funding requirements.

  5. County Fair Participation:

    • A county fair utilizing county facilities or funds must submit required information to the county quorum court for review before submitting it to the Department of Agriculture.

  6. Exhibitor Participation:

    • Exhibitors are allowed to participate in one district fair of their choice, promoting broader access to fair events.

  7. Definition of Fair:

    • The bill defines a "fair" to include livestock shows, consumer and family science, entertainment, and educational activities.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Junior Livestock Shows and Fairs: Organizations that rely on state funding for operations.
- Department of Agriculture: Responsible for administering the fair-funding program and ensuring compliance.
- Exhibitors: Individuals participating in fairs who will benefit from clearer guidelines and funding structures.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 6, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development.
  • April 22, 2025: SB 400 was enacted as Act 933 after passing through various legislative stages, including amendments and committee reviews.
  • April 16, 2025: Reported correctly enrolled and delivered to the Governor for signing.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 400 seeks to strengthen the fair-funding program in Arkansas by establishing clear guidelines and accountability measures for recipients of state funding. This legislation aims to ensure that funds are used effectively to support livestock shows and fairs, ultimately benefiting the agricultural community and enhancing educational opportunities for exhibitors.

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

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