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HB 1983

TO AMEND ACTS 1973, NO. 167, § 4, CONCERNING THE SALE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY TO THE WESTARK AREA COUNCIL, INC., BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jon Eubanks and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1983 confirms the Boy Scouts' sole title to specific properties, ensuring land use for scouting and youth activities, while eliminating previous ownership ambiguities.

Notification that HB1983 is now Act 1026
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Bill Summary · HB 1983

Summary of House Bill 1983 (HB 1983)

Overview

House Bill 1983 (HB 1983) is a legislative measure introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly aimed at amending previous acts concerning the sale of certain properties to the Westark Area Council, Inc., of the Boy Scouts of America. The bill seeks to clarify property rights and eliminate any ambiguities regarding the land's title and use.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1983 is to:
- Clarify Title: Confirm absolute and sole title to specific properties previously conveyed to the Westark Area Council, Inc., ensuring that the council holds the land free from any conditions or restrictive uses imposed by the state, except for designated areas.
- Address Ambiguities: Resolve uncertainties stemming from earlier legislative acts and deeds regarding the land's ownership and usage rights.

Key Provisions

  1. Legislative Findings: The bill outlines the history of property transactions involving the Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium and the Westark Area Council, highlighting concerns about potential hostile claims and ambiguities in property descriptions.

  2. Title Confirmation: HB 1983 aims to confirm that the Natural State Council of Boy Scouts of America, Inc. (the successor to the Westark Area Council) holds the title to the land without any restrictive conditions, except for specific lots designated for scouting activities and public use.

  3. Amendment of Previous Acts: The bill amends Acts 1973, No. 167, § 4, detailing the process for the sale or lease of the property, including:

    • The Governor's role in certifying the acquisition cost and approving the sale or lease.
    • A provision for leasing the land to the Boy Scouts for up to five years at an annual rate of $1,000, with an option to purchase during the lease period.

  4. Specific Land Use: The bill specifies that certain portions of the land must be used for Boy Scout programs and other youth recreational activities, ensuring the land's purpose aligns with community benefits.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The primary beneficiaries of HB 1983 are the Natural State Council of Boy Scouts of America, Inc., and the youth programs it supports. The bill aims to secure the land for ongoing scouting activities and community engagement.
  • State Agencies: The bill clarifies the relationship between the Boy Scouts and state agencies, particularly regarding land use and rights of reverter.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: April 3, 2025
  • Passed: April 16, 2025
  • Notification of Act: April 22, 2025 (now designated as Act 1026)

Conclusion

HB 1983 serves to clarify property rights and ensure the continued use of land for scouting activities in Arkansas. By resolving ambiguities from previous acts, the bill aims to protect the interests of the Boy Scouts and facilitate their community-oriented programs.

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

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