Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1759

Introduced
3/28/23  
Refer
3/28/23  
Report Pass
4/3/23  
Engrossed
4/4/23  
Refer
4/5/23  
Report Pass
4/6/23  
Enrolled
4/10/23  
Chaptered
4/13/23  

Caption

To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Redevelopment Districts.

Impact

The legislative discussions surrounding HB 1759 indicate a general awareness of the importance of redevelopment efforts in Arkansas. By setting strict limits on the lifespan of redevelopment districts, the bill seeks to enhance local governance and ensure responsible financial practices regarding public funds. The new regulations may lead to more timely and efficient redevelopment efforts, as local governments will be compelled to adhere to the stipulated timelines, thereby improving oversight and accountability for taxpayers. This legislative change is expected to streamline redevelopment processes, making them more effective at local levels.

Summary

House Bill 1759 amends existing Arkansas law regarding redevelopment districts, specifically addressing their duration and terms related to the issuance of bonds. The bill stipulates that a redevelopment district cannot exist for longer than twenty-five years without an original redevelopment plan or an amendment that allows for extended bond payment periods. However, the total lifespan of these districts is capped at forty years. This change aims to provide clarity and structure to the management of redevelopment projects within the state, ensuring that districts are effectively dissolved once their purpose has been fulfilled, thus preventing indefinite extensions that could complicate local governance and fiscal responsibility.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1759 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among legislators who prioritize economic development and fiscal responsibility. Proponents of the bill believe that the reforms will foster a more straightforward framework for redevelopment and avoid the potential pitfalls of overly prolonged districts. Conversely, there may be some apprehension among local officials who fear that strict termination timelines might curtail ongoing or future redevelopment projects, especially if they face delays due to external factors.

Contention

While the sentiment is generally positive, some stakeholders raised concerns about the potential ramifications of limiting the lifecycle of redevelopment districts strictly. Critics warn that while it's essential to prevent the indefinite existence of districts, the constraints imposed by the bill might hinder projects that genuinely need more time to realize their objectives, particularly in economically challenged areas. Thus, the contention lies in balancing the need for timely project completion with the flexibility to adapt to the complexities inherent in long-term redevelopment efforts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1010

An Act For The Arkansas State University - Arkansas Biosciences Institute Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB15

An Act For The University Of Arkansas At Pine Bluff Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1062

An Act For The Arkansas Department Of Transportation Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB37

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB71

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Reappropriation.

AR HB1022

An Act For The University Of Arkansas And The Division Of Agriculture - Arkansas Biosciences Institutes Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

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