Arkansas House Bill HB1982

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/25
• Refer: 4/3/25
• Report Pass: 4/8/25
• Engrossed: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/9/25

Caption

To Amend The Used Tire Recycling And Accountability Act; To Create The Tire Management And Recycling Act; To Repeal The Used Tire Recycling Fund; And To Create The Waste Tire Abatement Fund.

Impact

The bill introduces specific fees related to tire management, including a rim removal fee charged by retailers, which will be reduced from three dollars to one dollar fifty cents for new tires. This fee structure aims to simplify the financial landscape for tire retailers while incentivizing proper tire disposal and recycling methodologies. Additionally, it mandates that any funds collected through these fees are designated primarily for reimbursement to used tire programs and other tire management activities, reinforcing the accountability and traceability of these funds.

Summary

House Bill 1982 proposes significant amendments to the currently existing Used Tire Recycling and Accountability Act by creating a new framework called the Tire Management and Recycling Act. This bill aims to streamline the processes involved in managing used and waste tires in Arkansas, focusing on environmental protections and enhancing the efficiency of tire recycling programs. A primary aspect of the legislation is the establishment of the Waste Tire Abatement Fund, which will financially support tire management and recycling initiatives, ensuring that these programs operate sustainably and effectively.

Contention

There have been discussions regarding the effectiveness of the previous Used Tire Recycling Fund and whether the new Waste Tire Abatement Fund will successfully address existing challenges such as illegal tire dumping and inadequate recycling efforts. Critics of the bill worry that the new fee structures may not generate sufficient funds for comprehensive tire management across various regions, potentially leading to inequities in services provided to the public. Proponents, on the other hand, argue that by establishing clearer accountability and earmarking funds exclusively for tire abatement projects, the bill will promote better environmental practices and public health safety.