Bill > SB322

This bill amends Arkansas law to allow local governments to use third-party professionals for plan reviews and site inspections of construction projects. The bill establishes a comprehensive framework for private professional providers (PPPs) - such as professional engineers, registered architects, or other licensed professionals - to conduct plan reviews and inspections that were traditionally performed by local government officials. Key provisions include requiring local government officials to respond to permit requests within specific timeframes, allowing applicants to hire private professionals if government staff cannot complete reviews quickly, and setting detailed procedures for how these private reviews and inspections should be conducted. The bill mandates that private professional providers must be independent of the construction project, carry professional liability insurance, and submit detailed reports to local government officials. If local government officials do not respond within prescribed timelines, permit requests are automatically approved. The bill also includes provisions for resolving disputes between private professionals and local government officials, and establishes immunity for local governments in these processes. Certain types of buildings and facilities, such as hospitals, jails, and high-rise buildings, are exempted from these new provisions. The overall aim is to streamline the construction permitting and inspection process, reduce potential delays, and provide more flexibility for local governments and project applicants.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb322&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R