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HB 1683

TO PROHIBIT THE PROCUREMENT BY A GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY OF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE OR A COMPONENT OF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE THAT WAS MANUFACTURED IN WHOLE OR IN PART USING FORCED LABOR.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mindy McAlindon and 1 co-sponsor

Arkansas Act 924 bans government purchases of electric vehicles made with forced labor, ensuring taxpayer funds support ethical manufacturing practices.

Notification that HB1683 is now Act 924
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1683

Summary of House Bill 1683 (Act 924)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1683, now known as Act 924, was introduced to prohibit governmental entities in Arkansas from procuring electric vehicles (EVs) or components thereof that are manufactured, in whole or in part, using forced labor. The bill aims to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not used to support industries that exploit labor, particularly in light of growing concerns about forced labor practices in the production of materials for electric vehicles.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  1. Definition of Terms:

    • Electric Vehicle: A motor vehicle propelled significantly by an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery.
    • Forced Labor: Defined as labor obtained through coercion, fraud, or threats, including the exploitation of children in hazardous conditions.

  2. Procurement Restrictions:

    • Governmental entities are prohibited from entering contracts for the procurement of EVs or components unless the manufacturer provides a sworn certification confirming that no forced labor was used in the production process.

  3. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • Manufacturers providing false certifications may face civil penalties of up to $10,000 for each misleading statement or half of the total price paid by the governmental entity for the vehicle or component.
    • Governmental entities that knowingly violate the procurement restrictions may also incur similar penalties.
    • Employees of governmental entities found in violation may be personally liable for a $5,000 penalty.

  4. Effective Date:

    • The provisions apply to contracts entered into, amended, or renewed on or after the effective date of the act.

Affected Parties

  • Governmental Entities: This includes state agencies, political subdivisions, and educational institutions that procure electric vehicles.
  • Manufacturers: Companies producing electric vehicles or their components must comply with the certification requirements.
  • Laborers: The bill indirectly aims to protect workers by discouraging the use of forced labor in the supply chain of electric vehicles.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 5, 2025
  • Passed: April 15, 2025
  • Enacted: April 21, 2025, as Act 924

Conclusion

House Bill 1683 represents a significant step by the Arkansas General Assembly to address human rights concerns related to labor practices in the electric vehicle industry. By prohibiting the procurement of vehicles or components produced with forced labor, the act seeks to promote ethical sourcing and protect taxpayer interests.

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

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