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HB 1516

TO AMEND VARIOUS LAWS CONCERNING THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Crowell and 1 co-sponsor

Act 326 enhances Arkansas agriculture by improving disease control in livestock, funding law enforcement, and recognizing officers' service upon retirement or death.

Notification that HB1516 is now Act 326
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Bill Summary · HB 1516

Summary of House Bill 1516 (Act 326)

Overview

House Bill 1516, now known as Act 326, was introduced on February 18, 2025, during the 95th General Assembly of Arkansas. The bill aims to amend various laws concerning the Department of Agriculture, focusing on the control of contagious diseases in livestock, the classification of fines related to forest resources, and the establishment of a dedicated law enforcement fund.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1516 is to enhance the operational efficiency and enforcement capabilities of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. This includes:
- Improving the procedures for managing contagious diseases in livestock.
- Establishing a funding mechanism for law enforcement activities within the department.
- Recognizing the service of law enforcement officers upon retirement or death.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments and provisions:

  1. Examinations and Findings Related to Contagious Diseases:

    • Veterinary inspectors are granted the authority to enter properties to examine animals suspected of contagious diseases.
    • Owners must comply with orders to assemble animals for examination and may face penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to $300.

  2. Classification of Fines:

    • Fines resulting from violations of wildland fire laws, timber theft, and unlawful dumping will be classified as special revenues and deposited into the newly established Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Fund.

  3. Creation of the Law Enforcement Fund:

    • A special revenue fund is created to support the law enforcement functions of the Department of Agriculture. This fund will consist of fines collected from law enforcement activities and other authorized revenues.

  4. Award of Pistol:

    • Upon the retirement or death of a law enforcement officer from the Department of Agriculture, the Secretary may award the officer's service pistol to the officer or their eligible spouse.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Livestock Owners: The bill imposes stricter compliance requirements for owners of animals suspected of disease.
  • Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Officers: The establishment of a dedicated fund will enhance their operational capabilities and provide recognition for their service.
  • General Public: The enforcement of laws related to forest resources and contagious diseases will impact community health and environmental safety.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 18, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 6, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • March 12, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • March 18, 2025: Notification that HB 1516 is now Act 326.

Conclusion

Act 326 represents a comprehensive effort to modernize and strengthen the regulatory framework of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. By addressing critical areas such as disease control, law enforcement funding, and officer recognition, the legislation aims to enhance agricultural practices and public safety in the state.

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

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