The bill seeks to rename the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board to the Arkansas Home Inspector Licensing Board, reflecting a shift in focus from registration to licensing. It amends existing laws by replacing the term "registration" with "licensing" throughout the Arkansas Code, including definitions of applicants and licenses, as well as the board's powers and duties. The bill also clarifies board membership and succession, and allows for electronic notifications regarding license renewals.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Arkansas Home Inspectors Licensing Fund, transferring funds from the previous registration fund, and grants the board authority to enforce licensing requirements, conduct disciplinary hearings, and manage continuing education for licensed inspectors. It specifies that individuals must obtain a license to advertise or conduct home inspections, outlines the application process, and mandates adherence to established standards of practice and ethics. The bill also clarifies that disciplinary actions do not automatically result in civil or criminal liability and exempts public employees conducting inspections for their agency from licensing requirements if no additional compensation is received.

Statutes affected:
SB 319: 17-52-301, 17-52-302(a), 17-52-302(b), 17-52-303(1), 17-52-303, 17-52-304, 25-16-902, 17-52-305(a), 17-52-306, 17-52-307(a), 17-52-308, 25-19-101, 25-15-201, 17-3-102, 17-52-309(a), 17-52-310(a), 17-52-310(b), 17-52-310(e), 17-52-311, 17-52-312, 17-52-313, 17-52-314, 17-52-315, 17-52-316(a), 17-52-316(d), 17-52-317, 17-52-318(b), 17-52-319(b), 17-52-319(d), 17-52-320(b), 17-52-321(b), 17-52-322(a)