Urges and requests the state of Arkansas to comply with the Red River Compact
Impact
The resolution reinforces existing provisions in the Red River Compact that dictate how much water each state can develop or store. By urging Arkansas to adhere to the Compact, HCR244 aims to prevent potential future conflicts over water resources while ensuring that Louisiana receives its fair share of stream flows as stipulated in Section 7.03(b) of the Compact. This prompt to Arkansas may influence state water management policies, promoting a more collaborative approach to shared water resources across state lines.
Summary
HCR244 is a concurrent resolution urging the state of Arkansas, its governor, and the Red River Compact Commission to take affirmative action to increase the flow of streams to the rates agreed upon in the Red River Compact. This Compact was established to prevent disputes over shared water resources among Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, and to ensure adequate water flows for member states. The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining adequate surface flows to meet the agreements set out in the Compact and supports cooperation among states.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR244 appears to align with a cooperative legislative spirit focused on interstate relations and resource management. Legislators are generally supportive of efforts to promote collaboration among states regarding water issues, as it is crucial for addressing the complex challenges related to water rights in the Red River Basin. The resolution seeks to foster better communication and coordination among states to prevent litigation over water disputes, highlighting a proactive stance among the involved parties.
Contention
While HCR244 is primarily a request, any resistance or contention likely stems from broader concerns regarding state autonomy in managing natural resources. Some may argue against any perceived pressure on Arkansas to comply, fearing that it could clash with local interests or management strategies. However, the resolution's intent is fundamentally about ensuring compliance with a long-standing interstate agreement, which is crucial for mutual assistance and relationship maintenance among the neighboring states.
Expresses support for the Huey P. Long Medical Center, the Central La. State Hospital, the Red River Treatment Center, and the Pinecrest Supports and Services Center and urges and requests that these facilities remain open, public, and viable
Urges and requests the Arkansas Dept. of Finance and Administration to revise its current criteria for determining the existence of a nexus requiring out-of-state businesses to pay Arkansas income tax
Urges the Sabine River Authority and the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries to work with their Texas counterpart to develop consistent fishing regulations on Toledo Bend