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HB 1289

TO AMEND THE DUTIES OF THE ARKANSAS WATERWAYS COMMISSION; AND TO CREATE AN ARKANSAS WATERWAYS COMMISSION POLICE FORCE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Unger

HB 1289 aimed to empower the Arkansas Waterways Commission to create a police force for enforcing laws and ensuring safety on its properties, but was withdrawn.

WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
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Bill Summary · HB 1289

Summary of House Bill 1289

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 1289
Title: To Amend the Duties of the Arkansas Waterways Commission; and to Create an Arkansas Waterways Commission Police Force
Status: Withdrawn by Author
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1289 aimed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Arkansas Waterways Commission by amending its duties to include law enforcement functions. The bill proposed the establishment of a dedicated police force under the commission to ensure the protection of its property and the safety of individuals within its jurisdiction.

Key Provisions

The bill included several significant amendments to existing law:

  1. Amendment to Duties:

    • The Arkansas Waterways Commission would be empowered to:
      • Protect and police its property in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.
      • Appoint designated individuals as Arkansas Waterways Commission law enforcement officers.

  2. Creation of a Police Force:

    • The bill proposed the formation of a police force within the Arkansas Waterways Commission, allowing appointed officers to:
      • Arrest individuals for violations of laws occurring on commission property.
      • Carry weapons as necessary to perform their law enforcement duties.

  3. Certification Requirement:

    • All law enforcement officers appointed by the commission would need to be certified under existing state law governing law enforcement personnel.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1289 would have:
- Expanded the Arkansas Waterways Commission's authority, enabling it to directly enforce laws and regulations on its properties.
- Provided a structured approach to maintaining safety and security on waterways managed by the commission.
- Potentially improved collaboration between the commission and local law enforcement agencies.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 29, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • January 29, 2025: Rules suspended, read a second time, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
  • January 30, 2025: Bill withdrawn by the author.

Conclusion

While HB 1289 proposed significant changes to the Arkansas Waterways Commission's operational framework, it was ultimately withdrawn before further legislative action could take place. The intent behind the bill reflected a growing emphasis on safety and law enforcement within state-managed waterways.

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

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