23-04-2025
Arkansas governor signs legislation investing in state's water resources
ARKANSAS — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed three new bills for larger investments into Arkansas's water infrastructure.
'If our state is going to continue to grow and thrive, then every Arkansan needs access to safe and reliable water infrastructure,' said Governor Sanders. 'I was proud to work with the legislature to support this legislation and invest more than half a billion dollars in Arkansas' water issues, and I will work closely with the Department of Agriculture to ensure we provide assistance to the communities that need it most.'
SB420, now Act 736, allows more private entities to convert to public water authorities, allowing them to apply for additional state funding.
HB1681, now Act 812, establishes the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program, providing $25 million from interest earnings per year over the next three years to water and sewer facilities, with 20% earmarked for rural systems serving 1,200 people or fewer.
SB421, now Act 578, creates a ballot initiative for the 2026 election that, if approved, provides $500 million in water and wastewater project funding through 2043 that's paid for through loan repayments.
Arkansas' existing bond authority is set to expire in the summer of 2027.
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