Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB325

Introduced
2/27/23  

Caption

To Add Certain Gas Pipeline Facilities As An Exemption Under The Utility Facility Environmental And Economic Protection Act; And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

The bill's passage would allow for more streamlined construction of certain gas pipelines, which could potentially lead to economic benefits by creating job opportunities in Arkansas. This response to high inflation and increased consumer prices is designed to facilitate quicker initiation of construction projects in the energy sector, thereby aiming to stimulate local economies and provide employment to residents.

Summary

Senate Bill 325 seeks to amend the Utility Facility Environmental and Economic Protection Act by adding exemptions for specific gas pipeline facilities. This legislation particularly focuses on pipelines that are primarily constructed for serving a single customer or a designated group of customers. Furthermore, these pipelines must be situated entirely on land owned or leased by the customer, ensuring that the facility operates under common ownership or control.

Contention

Supporters of SB325 argue that the bill is necessary to adapt to current economic conditions and promote energy development in the state. However, it may also generate concerns among environmentalists who worry about the implications of reducing regulatory oversight in natural gas pipeline construction. This reflects an ongoing tension between economic development initiatives and environmental protection standards, as the bill could potentially lessen the framework within which utility facilities are held to environmental accountability.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB77

To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB57

An Act For The Department Of Education - Division Of Public School Academic Facilities And Transportation Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1097

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB80

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1079

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Division Of Environmental Quality Supplemental Appropriation.

AR HB1032

An Act For The Office Of The Treasurer Of State - City-county Tourist Meeting And Entertainment Facilities Assistance Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.