Bill > HB1690

This bill transfers the Nuclear Planning and Response Program from the Arkansas Department of Health to the Division of Emergency Management within the Department of Public Safety, effective July 1, 2025. The transfer includes all statutory authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, contracts, and unexpended funds related to the program. The bill maintains existing rules, regulations, and standards from the Department of Health until they are formally amended or repealed. The program's core mission remains focused on protecting citizens from radiation hazards associated with nuclear-powered electricity generating facilities, including continuous environmental radiation surveillance, emergency response planning, public education, and coordinating with local governments in areas near nuclear facilities. The bill updates multiple sections of Arkansas code to reflect the administrative transfer, changes references from the Department of Health to the Division of Emergency Management, and increases the minimum grant funding to eligible counties from $10,000 to $75,000. An emergency clause is included to emphasize the importance of maintaining uninterrupted services during the transition and to ensure the program's continued ability to protect public health and safety.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1690&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R