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HB 1576

TO PROHIBIT A SOLID WASTE LANDFILL TO BE PLACED OVER A KARST TOPOGRAPHY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Bryant and 2 co-sponsors

House Bill 1576 aimed to ban solid waste landfills over karst topography to protect groundwater and the environment, but it died in the Senate without further action.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1576

Summary of House Bill 1576

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HB 1576
  • Title: To Prohibit a Solid Waste Landfill to be Placed Over a Karst Topography
  • Status: Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment
  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1576 was introduced to address environmental concerns related to the placement of solid waste landfills over karst topography. Karst topography is characterized by soluble carbonate rocks, such as limestone and dolomite, which can create a network of fissures and conduits that may lead to groundwater contamination. The bill aims to protect these sensitive geological areas from the potential hazards associated with solid waste disposal.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Karst Topography:

    • The bill amends the Arkansas Solid Waste Management Act to include a definition of "karst topography," describing it as areas with dissolution of soluble rocks where water systems are interconnected through fissures and fractures.

  2. Prohibition on Landfills:

    • The bill makes it illegal to construct, install, modify, or operate a solid waste landfill in the outcrop area of geologic formations, including karst topography. This provision aims to prevent environmental degradation and protect water quality in these sensitive areas.

  3. Exemptions:

    • The prohibition does not apply to transfer stations, recycling facilities, composting facilities, or other waste disposal methods that are not classified as solid waste landfills.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The bill would primarily affect waste management companies and local governments considering the establishment of new landfills in areas with karst topography. It aims to safeguard the environment and public health by preventing potential contamination of groundwater resources.

  • Environmental Protection:

    • By restricting landfill placement in karst areas, the bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with waste disposal, thereby promoting better environmental stewardship and public health.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 25, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • February 27, 2025: Amendment No. 1 adopted; bill engrossed.
  • March 3, 2025: Amendment No. 2 adopted; bill engrossed.
  • March 5, 2025: Amendment No. 3 adopted; bill engrossed.
  • March 11, 2025: Bill passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • May 5, 2025: Bill died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

Conclusion

House Bill 1576 aimed to enhance environmental protections by prohibiting solid waste landfills over karst topography. Despite its passage in the House, the bill ultimately did not advance in the Senate, reflecting the challenges of enacting legislation focused on environmental safeguards.

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

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