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HB 1743

TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS FEED LAW OF 1997.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Wallace and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1743 updates Arkansas' Feed Law, streamlining licensing for feed manufacturers and distributors, enhancing compliance, and clarifying the Department of Agriculture's role.

Notification that HB1743 is now Act 586
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Bill Summary · HB 1743

Summary of House Bill 1743 (HB 1743)

Bill Title: To Amend the Arkansas Feed Law of 1997
Bill Number: HB 1743
Status: Now Act 586
Introduced: March 11, 2025
Authors: Representative Wooldridge, Senator D. Wallace

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1743 aims to amend the Arkansas Feed Law of 1997 to update definitions, streamline licensing processes, and clarify the responsibilities of the State Plant Board within the Department of Agriculture. The bill seeks to enhance the regulation of commercial feed manufacturing and distribution in Arkansas, ensuring compliance and proper oversight.

Key Provisions

  1. Enforcement Agency Update:

    • The bill designates the Department of Agriculture as the enforcing agency for the Arkansas Feed Law, replacing the previous reference to the "State Plant Board."

  2. Definition Changes:

    • The definition of "board" has been repealed, and references to "official sample" have been updated to reflect the Department of Agriculture's role.

  3. Licensing Requirements:

    • Individuals or entities that manufacture or distribute commercial feed must obtain a license for each facility. A $10 license fee is required, which will be deposited into the Plant Board Fund.
    • Retailers selling commercial feed from licensed manufacturers are exempt from obtaining a license.

  4. License Expiration and Renewal:

    • Licenses will expire on December 31 each year but may remain valid for an additional 90 days if a renewal application is filed on time.
    • A $30 late fee will apply for late license applications or renewals.

  5. Inspection Fees:

    • An inspection fee of $0.30 per ton of commercial feed distributed in Arkansas is established, with specific exemptions and minimum fees outlined.
    • Failure to pay inspection fees will incur a penalty of 15% or $25, whichever is higher.

  6. Compliance and Enforcement:

    • The Department of Agriculture is empowered to refuse, suspend, or revoke licenses for non-compliance, with provisions for hearings before such actions are taken.

  7. Exemptions:

    • Growers producing unmanipulated poultry litter are exempt from the provisions of this chapter.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The bill primarily impacts manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of commercial feed in Arkansas, as well as the regulatory framework governing these activities.
  • Regulatory Clarity: By updating definitions and responsibilities, the bill aims to provide clearer guidelines for compliance, potentially reducing confusion and improving enforcement efficiency.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 11, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 20, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • April 1, 2025: Returned by the Senate Committee with a recommendation to pass.
  • April 9, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • April 14, 2025: Notification that HB 1743 is now Act 586.

This summary provides an overview of the essential elements of HB 1743, highlighting its purpose, key changes, and the potential impact on stakeholders involved in the commercial feed industry in Arkansas.

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

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