Bill > SB281

This bill establishes the Producer Bill of Rights for Commodity Checkoff Programs Act, which aims to improve commodity checkoff programs in Arkansas by enhancing transparency, producer control, and engagement. The bill applies to six specific agricultural commodity boards, including those for soybeans, wheat, rice, corn and grain sorghum, catfish, and beef. The key provisions require these programs to publish meeting notices and minutes, provide a producer portal for public comments, and solicit annual input from producers. The bill mandates that funds collected by these programs can only be used for approved purposes and not for general department support without specific authorization. Additionally, the programs are encouraged to cooperate with each other to reduce duplicate efforts and achieve efficiencies. Recipients of grants over $10,000 must provide annual summaries of their work, including project outcomes and estimated return on investment. The bill also requires these programs to make various records publicly available online, such as meeting minutes, financial reports, research reports, and promotional materials, to increase transparency and accountability in how checkoff program funds are used.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb281&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R