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2024 Regular Session Introduced by Kurt Fevella

Senate Bill 617 expands the Capitol Zoning District, granting the Commission greater authority to regulate land use, benefiting urban planning and reducing pollution near the State Capitol.

Carried over to 2024 Regular Session.

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Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 617 (SB 617) aims to amend the existing laws concerning the Capitol Zoning District in Arkansas. The bill seeks to expand the zoning authority of the Capitol Zoning District Commission, thereby enhancing its ability to regulate land use and development in the vicinity of the State Capitol.

Key Provisions

SB 617 introduces several significant changes to the Capitol Zoning District regulations:

Expansion of the Zoning District:

The bill adds a new subsection to Arkansas Code § 22-3-302, which extends the Capitol Zoning District to include all streets, paths, bike lanes, and rights-of-way within a one-mile radius of the State Capitol.
Notably, state highways designated under § 27-67-201 are excluded from this expansion.

Enhanced Zoning Authority:

The Capitol Zoning District Commission is granted broader zoning authority under Arkansas Code § 22-3-304. This includes:
- Restrictions on building height, number of stories, and overall size.
- Limitations on the percentage of lots that may be occupied.
- Regulations on the use of structures and land.
- Control over population density and the amount of open space.
- Management of parking areas.
- Restrictions on noisy and polluting activities that could endanger public health and safety.
- Design regulations for streets, paths, bike lanes, and rights-of-way within the newly defined area.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily impacts:
- Capitol Zoning District Commission: Gains expanded authority to regulate land use.
- Developers and Property Owners: May face new restrictions and regulations regarding land use and development in the expanded zoning area.
- Residents and Visitors: Could benefit from improved urban planning and reduced pollution and noise in the vicinity of the State Capitol.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: April 3, 2025

Status: The bill was carried over to the 2024 Regular Session and subsequently died in the Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025.

Legislative History: The bill underwent several readings and committee reviews, with recommendations for passage and amendments before its eventual halt in the legislative process.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 617 represents an effort to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding the Capitol Zoning District in Arkansas. By expanding the district's boundaries and the Commission's authority, the bill aims to foster better urban planning and environmental management in the area surrounding the State Capitol. However, its failure to progress in the legislative session indicates challenges in garnering sufficient support for its provisions.

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