Bill > SB249

This bill amends Arkansas forestry laws by modifying the penalties and enforcement powers related to forestry registration violations. Specifically, the bill replaces criminal misdemeanor charges with a new civil penalty system where the Arkansas Forestry Commission can impose fines up to $5,000 for violations such as practicing forestry without a valid registration, falsely claiming forestry certification, using another person's registration certificate, providing false evidence, using expired or revoked certificates, or violating other chapter provisions. While the civil penalty is the primary enforcement mechanism, the bill retains the option for violators to be charged with a Class A misdemeanor upon conviction. Additionally, the bill grants the Arkansas Forestry Commission the authority to create a formal penalty matrix with rules that establish specific penalty guidelines for different types of violations, providing a more structured approach to addressing infractions in the forestry profession.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb249&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R