Arkansas Senate Bill SB396

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/25
• Refer: 3/6/25

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning Hunting And Fishing Licenses; And To Authorize The Arkansas State Game And Fish Commission To Issue To Certain Nonresidents A Hunting Or Fishing License For The Cost Of A Resident License.

Impact

The impact of SB396 is significant in terms of encouraging former Arkansas residents, particularly students, to stay engaged with the state's outdoor recreational activities. By allowing these nonresidents to pay the same fees as residents, the bill seeks to promote inclusiveness and maintain ties for individuals who may now be residing out of state for educational purposes. This could potentially lead to increased participation in hunting and fishing activities, which are vital for Arkansas’s economy and recreational culture.

Summary

Senate Bill 396 aims to amend the laws concerning hunting and fishing licenses in Arkansas. The bill proposes to allow certain nonresidents who have graduated from Arkansas schools to purchase hunting or fishing licenses at the same cost as residents. This provision applies to individuals actively pursuing a higher education degree in another state, thereby providing a benefit to those who maintain a connection to Arkansas through their education.

Contention

While the proponents argue that SB396 fosters a sense of belonging among Arkansas graduates, there could be contention regarding the equitable treatment of all nonresidents. Some stakeholders might express concerns that the bill favors a specific group of nonresidents over others who also contribute to the state’s recreational economy. Additionally, considerations around equitable access to resources and potential impacts on resident hunters and fishermen may also arise during discussions.