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HB 1690

TO TRANSFER THE NUCLEAR PLANNING AND RESPONSE PROGRAM FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO THE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Breanne Davis and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1690 transfers Arkansas' Nuclear Planning and Response Program to Emergency Management, boosting nuclear safety and preparedness for residents near nuclear facilities.

Notification that HB1690 is now Act 583
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1690

Summary of House Bill 1690 (HB 1690)

Overview

House Bill 1690 (HB 1690) aims to transfer the Nuclear Planning and Response Program from the Arkansas Department of Health to the Division of Emergency Management within the Department of Public Safety. The bill was introduced on March 5, 2025, and has since been enacted as Act 583.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1690 is to enhance the state's preparedness and response capabilities regarding nuclear incidents. By transferring the program to the Division of Emergency Management, the bill seeks to streamline operations and ensure that emergency management professionals are directly responsible for nuclear safety and response planning.

Key Provisions

  • Transfer of Authority:

    • The Nuclear Planning and Response Program will officially move from the Department of Health to the Division of Emergency Management on July 1, 2025.
    • This transfer includes all statutory authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, contracts, and unexpended funds associated with the program.

  • Continuity of Regulations:

    • Existing orders, rules, regulations, and standards established by the Department of Health will remain in effect until amended or repealed by the Division of Emergency Management.

  • Emergency Management Responsibilities:

    • The Division of Emergency Management will be tasked with continuous environmental radiation surveillance, public education on nuclear hazards, and the development of emergency response plans for nuclear incidents.
    • The program will also involve training for residents near nuclear facilities and dissemination of information regarding protective measures.

  • Funding:

    • The bill stipulates that the costs associated with the program will be borne by utilities operating nuclear-powered electricity generating facilities through fees or assessments.

Impact

  • Affected Entities:

    • The transfer will primarily affect the Division of Emergency Management, the Department of Health, and utilities operating nuclear facilities in Arkansas.
    • Citizens living near nuclear facilities will benefit from improved emergency preparedness and response measures.

  • Emergency Declaration:

    • The bill includes an emergency clause, indicating that the changes are intended to take effect immediately upon enactment to enhance public safety without delay.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 5, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • March 12, 2025: Committee recommended the bill for passage.
  • March 17, 2025: Bill passed in the House and sent to the Senate.
  • April 1, 2025: Senate committee recommended the bill for passage.
  • April 9, 2025: Bill passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • April 14, 2025: Notification that HB 1690 is now Act 583.

Conclusion

HB 1690 represents a significant shift in how Arkansas manages nuclear safety and emergency response. By consolidating these responsibilities under the Division of Emergency Management, the state aims to improve its readiness for potential nuclear incidents, thereby enhancing public safety and environmental protection.

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

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