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HB 1575

RESTRICT COVENANT MODIFY FEE

104th Regular Session Introduced by Carol Ammons and 14 co-sponsors

Act 376 bars individuals with financial ties to solid waste organizations from serving on key boards, ensuring transparency and preventing conflicts of interest in Arkansas.

Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0187
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Bill Summary · HB 1575

Summary of House Bill 1575 (Act 376)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1575, now known as Act 376, aims to enhance the integrity of certain boards and commissions involved in solid waste management in Arkansas. The bill prohibits individuals who are employed by or have a financial interest in organizations that own, operate, represent, or apply for solid waste licenses or permits from serving on specific boards. This measure is intended to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that board members act in the public's best interest.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces amendments to existing Arkansas laws regarding the membership of the following:

  1. Arkansas Pollution Control and Ecology Commission:

    • A new subsection (h) is added to Arkansas Code § 8-4-104, stating that individuals employed by or with a financial interest in solid waste organizations cannot serve as commission members.

  2. Regional Solid Waste Planning Districts and Boards:

    • An additional subsection (d) is added to Arkansas Code § 8-6-703, which outlines similar restrictions for board members of regional solid waste planning districts.
    • Notably, the restrictions do not apply to elected officials or city/county employees who are required to represent their jurisdictions on these boards.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Individuals: Those employed by or with financial interests in solid waste organizations will be ineligible to serve on the specified boards.
- Organizations: Firms and businesses involved in solid waste management will need to ensure that their employees do not hold positions on these boards to comply with the new regulations.
- Government Entities: Local governments may need to adjust their appointments to ensure compliance with the new eligibility criteria.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Amendments: The bill underwent several amendments, with the final version being engrossed on March 5, 2025.
  • Passed: The bill passed through both the House and Senate on March 18, 2025.
  • Enacted: Officially became Act 376 on March 20, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1575 (Act 376) establishes important ethical standards for board membership in solid waste management, aiming to eliminate potential conflicts of interest. By restricting individuals with financial ties to solid waste organizations from serving on relevant boards, the legislation seeks to promote transparency and accountability in environmental governance.

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

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