Arkansas House Bill HB1820

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/23
• Refer: 3/30/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Amend The Law Regarding Energy; To Amend The Law Concerning Coal-powered Electrical Generation Facilities; To Require Certain Actions Before Decommissioning Or Disposal Of Assets; And To Require A Study.

Impact

A key provision in HB1820 is that it allows for additional regulations surrounding the decommissioning or disposal of coal-powered generation facilities. Specifically, it mandates that project entities must provide advance notice to legislative authorities prior to any disposal or decommissioning activities. Moreover, the bill asserts state sovereignty by defining the state's primary authority to manage the retirement of electrical facilities without external regulatory interference, reinforcing the need for collaboration with federal agencies when necessary.

Summary

House Bill 1820 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending laws regarding energy and coal-powered electrical generation facilities in Arkansas. The bill establishes a state energy policy focused on ensuring adequate, reliable, affordable, sustainable, and clean energy resources. It emphasizes the importance of both nonrenewable and renewable energy sources and seeks to promote the development of various energy infrastructures such as electrical generation and transmission facilities while balancing economic costs and regulatory review processes.

Contention

The bill has sparked significant debate, particularly regarding the implications of centralizing authority over energy resources and potential conflicts with environmental regulations. Proponents argue that it is necessary to secure reliable energy resources and defend against federal mandates that could lead to forced retirements of energy facilities. However, opponents raise concerns about the environmental impact of continued reliance on coal and the risks of delaying the transition to cleaner energy solutions.