WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 290

relative to the definition of "torture" in animal abuse cases.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Debra Altschiller and 6 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 290 prevents Arkansas agencies from imposing permit moratoriums on water resources, ensuring transparency and supporting agricultural production.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Senate Rule 3-23, 10/31/2025; SJ 1
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 290

Summary of Senate Bill 290: Relating to Lobbying

Overview

Senate Bill 290 (SB 290) aims to prohibit state agencies in Arkansas from instituting a moratorium on the issuance of permits in watersheds and other bodies of water. The bill is part of a broader initiative to enhance transparency and accountability in lobbying and regulatory practices.

Key Provisions

  1. Prohibition on Moratoriums:

    • The bill amends Arkansas Code § 15-23-107 to explicitly prohibit state agencies, including the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Energy and Environment, from instituting a moratorium on permit issuance in watersheds or other bodies of water.
    • A "moratorium" is defined as any prohibition on the issuance of permits or limitations on agricultural production, including livestock and poultry operations.

  2. Conditions for Moratoriums:

    • If a state agency wishes to impose a moratorium, it must:
      • Promulgate a rule following the Arkansas Administrative Procedure Act.
      • Obtain review and approval from the Legislative Council or, if the General Assembly is in session, the Joint Budget Committee.
    • Any approved moratorium will expire four years after its effective date unless renewed through the same review process.

  3. Existing Moratoriums:

    • Existing moratoriums related to watersheds must undergo the review and approval process within 90 days of the bill's effective date to remain enforceable. If not submitted, they will expire immediately.

  4. Emergency Provisions:

    • The bill allows state agencies to seek approval for emergency rules to impose a moratorium to protect public health, safety, or compliance with federal laws.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The bill primarily impacts state agencies responsible for environmental regulation and agricultural production. It also affects stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including farmers and livestock producers, by ensuring that permit issuance is not hindered by moratoriums.

  • Transparency and Accountability:

    • By requiring state agencies to follow a structured review process for moratoriums, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in regulatory practices.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Amendments: The bill has undergone several amendments to refine its provisions, including changes to the review process and definitions.
  • Current Status: As of April 22, 2025, SB 290 has been enacted as Act 921.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 290 represents a significant legislative effort to prevent state agencies from imposing moratoriums on permits in critical water resources, thereby promoting agricultural production and regulatory transparency in Arkansas. The bill's provisions ensure that any moratoriums are subject to legislative oversight, thereby protecting the interests of stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

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

Sign in to ask a question.