Arkansas House Bill HB1690

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/25
• Refer: 3/5/25
• Report Pass: 3/12/25
• Engrossed: 3/17/25
• Refer: 3/17/25
• Report Pass: 4/1/25
• Enrolled: 4/9/25
• Chaptered: 4/14/25
• Passed: 4/14/25

Caption

To Transfer The Nuclear Planning And Response Program From The Department Of Health To The Division Of Emergency Management; And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

The proposed transfer will encompass all associated statutory authority, powers, duties, records, personnel, and funding related to the Nuclear Planning and Response Program. There will be a continuous environmental radiation surveillance and comprehensive training for local governments located near these facilities. Furthermore, the bill mandates that utilities operating nuclear facilities bear the costs associated with these emergency planning measures, thereby ensuring that necessary resources are allocated to maintain public safety and health standards around nuclear sites.

Summary

House Bill 1690 proposes a significant transfer of responsibilities regarding the Nuclear Planning and Response Program from the Department of Health to the Division of Emergency Management within the Department of Public Safety in Arkansas. The bill, which is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, is driven by the need to enhance the state's response capabilities in the event of radiological incidents or accidents at nuclear-powered electricity generating facilities. By consolidating these responsibilities under the Division of Emergency Management, the bill aims to streamline operations and improve the effectiveness of emergency response procedures for the protection of public health.

Contention

While the bill is poised to enhance nuclear safety protocols, it may raise concerns about the adequacy of oversight during and after the transition of responsibilities. Critics could argue that moving such a crucial program could lead to lapses in monitoring and preparedness during the handover period. Additionally, the reliance on utility companies to finance these preparations might lead to conflicts of interest, as the profit motives of these companies could mismatch with public safety obligations. The bill explicitly states that existing orders, rules, and regulations from the Department of Health will remain in effect until amended or repealed, which aims to provide continuity and address such potential concerns during the transition.