To Amend The Law Concerning Permitting For Residential Construction; To Amend The Fast-track Permits Act; And To Allow A Local Government To Create A Housing Improvement Zone.
Impact
The introduction of housing improvement zones is significant as it encourages local governments to take proactive measures in addressing housing shortages or improvement needs within their communities. By exempting projects within these zones from various permits, the bill could potentially accelerate housing development initiatives. Local governments can tailor the creation of these zones according to their unique housing conditions and demands, which gives them a measure of autonomy that could lead to targeted improvements in residential infrastructure.
Summary
House Bill 1130 aims to amend existing laws concerning permitting for residential construction and introduces provisions for local governments to create ‘housing improvement zones’. Under this bill, such zones would be designated areas within local jurisdictions where property related to residential unit improvements would be exempt from typical development permits. This move is seen as an effort to streamline permitting processes and improve residential construction by reducing bureaucratic hurdles that local builders frequently encounter.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, HB 1130 may face contention from various stakeholders concerned about the implications of reduced permitting requirements. Critics may argue that such exemptions could lead to substandard construction practices if oversight is diminished as a result of the bill. Ensuring adequate housing quality while promoting quicker development will be a balancing act for local governments. Additionally, there could be pushback from within the legislative body regarding local control versus state mandates, as the bill seeks to modify how residential projects are governed at the local level.
To Amend The Law Concerning Publication Of Notice; To Allow The Publication Of Notice On A Website; To Amend The Law Concerning Counties And Municipalities And Publication; And To Amend The Law Concerning Elections.
To Create The Protect Arkansas Act; To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Sentencing And Parole; To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Certain Criminal Offenses; And To Create The Legislative Recidivism Reduction Task Force.
To Amend The Local Government Bond Act Of 1985; And To Amend The Definition Of "capital Improvements Of A Public Nature" To Include Cemetery Facilities And Apparatus.