Bill > HB1073

This bill establishes the Advanced Energy Jobs Task Force, a diverse committee comprising legislators, state officials, and energy experts, to study and propose strategies for Arkansas's transition to advanced energy systems. The task force will focus on job creation, economic development, and preparing the state's workforce for emerging advanced energy technologies. Its specific duties include identifying industry training gaps, assessing existing educational programs, exploring workforce development funding, determining utility strategies for advanced energy systems, and prioritizing approaches for decarbonization across various sectors like industrial processes, transportation, and building heating. The task force will evaluate technologies, minimize impacts on vulnerable communities, and aim to maximize economic opportunities in advanced energy. Composed of 14 members from different backgrounds, the task force will meet at least monthly, using digital platforms, and is required to file a comprehensive report with recommendations by December 31, 2026. The bill defines key terms like "advanced electricity resource" and "near zero emissions" and provides for potential contracted facilitation to support the task force's work. The task force will officially expire on December 31, 2026, after completing its research and recommendations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1073&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R