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HB 1757

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING RAILROADS; AND TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF TAMPERING WITH RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Bryant and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1757 protects Arkansas railroads by criminalizing tampering and imposing Class D felony penalties, enhancing safety for operators and the public.

Notification that HB1757 is now Act 528
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1757

Summary of House Bill 1757 (HB 1757)

Overview

House Bill 1757, now known as Act 528, was introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly on March 12, 2025. The bill aims to amend existing laws concerning railroads and establish penalties for tampering with rail infrastructure. The legislation underscores the importance of railroads to the state's transportation system and seeks to enhance protections against interference.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1757 is to:
- Protect Rail Infrastructure: Recognize the essential role of railroads in Arkansas and safeguard them from acts of tampering and interference.
- Establish Legal Penalties: Create specific offenses and penalties for individuals who engage in tampering with rail infrastructure, thereby promoting safety and security in rail transport.

Key Provisions

Legislative Findings

  • The bill states that railroads are vital to the state's functionality and that it is the General Assembly's duty to protect them from interference.

Definition of Tampering

The bill defines "tampering" to include a range of actions such as:
- Displacing, removing, damaging, or destroying rail infrastructure.
- Setting fire to or impairing rail transport.
- Interfering with signaling or communication systems.

Offenses Created

Under the new section added to Arkansas Code Title 23, Chapter 12, Subchapter 8:
- Tampering with Rail Infrastructure: A person commits this offense if they, without lawful authority, recklessly engage in any of the following actions:
- Tampering with rail tracks, signals, or any related equipment.
- Placing obstructions on rail infrastructure.
- Conveying false information regarding tampering attempts.

Penalties

  • The offense of tampering with rail infrastructure is classified as a Class D felony, which may result in significant legal consequences for offenders.

Impact

Who is Affected?

  • Railroad Operators: The bill directly impacts railroad companies and operators by providing them with legal recourse against tampering.
  • Public Safety: Enhancing penalties for tampering aims to protect passengers, employees, and the general public from potential hazards associated with rail transport.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 12, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Public Transportation.
  • March 19, 2025: The bill was amended, passed in the House, and sent to the Senate.
  • April 10, 2025: The bill was signed into law as Act 528.

Conclusion

HB 1757 represents a significant legislative effort to safeguard Arkansas's rail infrastructure by criminalizing tampering and establishing penalties for such actions. This law aims to enhance the safety and reliability of rail transport in the state, reflecting the importance of railroads in the broader transportation network.

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

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