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Bill

HB 1278

VICTIMS SAFETY-ELECTRONICS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Balkema and 20 co-sponsors

House Bill 1278 mandates surveyors to notify poultry farm owners and follow biosecurity protocols, enhancing safety and protecting commercial poultry operations in Arkansas.

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Bill Summary · HB 1278

Summary of House Bill 1278: Relating to Hazardous Tree Removal

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1278 (HB 1278) aims to amend existing laws regarding the removal of hazardous trees in the state of Arkansas. The bill is designed to enhance safety measures by establishing clear protocols for surveyors before they enter commercial poultry farms, ensuring that biosecurity and property rights are respected.

Key Provisions

  • Definition of Commercial Poultry Farm: The bill defines a "commercial poultry farm" as any poultry operation with poultry houses exceeding 5,000 square feet.

  • Surveyor Protocols: Before entering a commercial poultry farm, surveyors must:

    1. Notify the owner of the commercial poultry farm.
    2. Adhere to all biosecurity protocols and visitor requirements set by the farm.

These provisions are intended to protect the health and safety of poultry operations and prevent the potential spread of diseases.

Affected Parties

  • Surveyors: The bill imposes new requirements on surveyors who need to conduct surveys on or near commercial poultry farms.
  • Commercial Poultry Farm Owners: Owners will benefit from enhanced protection of their operations and biosecurity measures.
  • Public Health and Safety: The bill indirectly impacts public health by aiming to prevent disease outbreaks that could arise from improper access to poultry farms.

Legislative Timeline and Status

  • Introduced: January 28, 2025
  • Passed: The bill has successfully passed through various legislative stages, including readings and committee approvals, and was transmitted to the Governor's Office on February 13, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of February 18, 2025, HB 1278 has been enacted as Act 99. However, it was noted that the committee on WTL deleted the measure from a public hearing scheduled for March 19, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1278 establishes important protocols for surveyors entering commercial poultry farms, thereby enhancing biosecurity and protecting the interests of poultry farm owners. The bill reflects a commitment to maintaining safe agricultural practices in Arkansas.

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

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