Arkansas Senate Bill SB84

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

To Prohibit A Moratorium On The Issuance Of Permits In Watersheds And Other Bodies Of Water.

Impact

The passage of SB84 will significantly affect state laws governing water resource management. It effectively nullifies any existing moratoriums on permit issuance related to watersheds, specifically highlighting areas like the Buffalo River Watershed. Upon enactment, any previously instituted moratoriums will become unenforceable, compelling state agencies to be more proactive in their permitting processes rather than delaying them.

Summary

Senate Bill 84 aims to prohibit state agencies from imposing moratoriums on the issuance of permits in watersheds and other bodies of water. This legislation specifically targets the actions of state agencies, including the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Energy and Environment, ensuring that no suspension of permit issuance may occur without prior approval from the Legislative Council. The bill's proponents argue that it will streamline water management processes and prevent unnecessary delays in development and conservation efforts.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB84 relate to environmental stewardship and the safeguarding of sensitive ecosystems. Critics may argue that eliminating the ability for state agencies to impose temporary moratoriums could jeopardize aquatic habitats and lead to irreversible environmental damage. The requirement for Legislative Council approval for any moratoriums may be viewed as a bureaucratic hurdle that could hinder timely responses to environmental concerns, thus creating a dichotomy between development interests and ecological preservation.