Bill > SB290

This bill establishes new regulations regarding moratoriums on permits in watersheds and other bodies of water in Arkansas. Specifically, the bill defines a "moratorium" as a prohibition or limitation on agricultural production, including livestock, poultry operations, and crop cultivation. State agencies are generally prohibited from instituting such moratoriums, but if they wish to do so, they must follow a strict process: promulgate a rule, follow administrative procedure requirements, and obtain review and approval from the legislative oversight committee. Any approved moratorium would be valid for four years and would require renewal before expiration. The bill includes an emergency exception that allows agencies to seek approval for a moratorium to protect public health or comply with federal regulations. Importantly, the legislation does not create new regulatory authority for agencies that do not already have it, and it does not apply to moratoriums already in place before the bill's effective date. The bill also instructs the Department of Agriculture to continue using existing rules on liquid animal waste management systems until new rules are adopted. The legislation is set to take effect on February 1, 2026, providing state agencies and stakeholders ample time to prepare for the new requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb290&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R