Bill > HB1416

This bill amends Arkansas state law to clarify and refine the process by which volunteer fire departments serving unincorporated county areas can levy annual dues from residents and businesses. The bill specifies that a county quorum court can authorize a designated official to collect and remit annual dues for fire protection services in unincorporated areas, following a specific procedure that includes either a special election or a petition signed by a majority of registered voters in the fire department's district. If approved, these dues would be listed on real property tax statements and collected by the county collector alongside regular property taxes. The bill also requires volunteer fire departments to file an annual report with the county clerk by December 15, which must include details such as board member contact information, fire chief contact details, payment instructions, and the specific amount of annual dues. Churches may be exempt from these dues at the discretion of the fire department if they are already exempt from real property taxes, and active volunteer fire department members might also be exempted from paying dues. The bill aims to provide a more structured and transparent mechanism for volunteer fire departments to secure funding for their critical services in rural and unincorporated areas.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1416&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R