3.12.25 – KATV – by Scott Solomon – LITTLE ROCK
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed 44 bills into law, addressing a wide range of issues from tax exemptions for disabled veterans to changes in election procedures.
Among the newly signed legislation is HB1400, which amends the law concerning the redemption of tax-delinquent parcels, specifically exempting disabled veterans from certain penalties. HB1556 changes the date of Arkansas Music Appreciation Day, while SB236 amends the Insurance Holding Company Regulatory Act.
Significant changes were also made to the Fair Mortgage Lending Act through HB1466 and HB1184, with the latter focusing on consumer privacy in mortgage applications. SB292 addresses the scheduling of annual school elections, allowing for adjustments if they fall on a state holiday.
HCR1007 encourages the U.S. Congress to reevaluate the Medicare physician fee schedule locality structure, ensuring accurate geographic practice cost indices for Arkansas’s metropolitan areas.
Other notable bills include HB1213, which clarifies definitions within the Arkansas Athletic Trainers Act, and HB1217, establishing the Interstate Massage Compact in Arkansas. SB119 establishes the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact.
Election-related legislation includes SB272, which prohibits pre-filled fields on voter registration forms, and SB294, allowing the State Board of Election Commissioners to audit counties under certain circumstances.
The Governor also signed bills impacting environmental regulations, such as SB249, which amends penalties related to forestry violations, and SB267, repealing the Arkansas Alternative Motor Fuel Development Act.
Appropriations for various state departments and projects were also addressed, including HB1146 for the Office of Attorney General and HB1175 for the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism.
These legislative changes reflect a broad spectrum of policy adjustments aimed at improving governance and public services across Arkansas.
The full list of bills can be found here.