The proposed legislation, titled the "Public Entity Streetlight System Investment Act," aims to reduce the costs associated with street lighting for public entities in Arkansas. It establishes a new chapter in the Arkansas Code that outlines the legislative findings and intent, emphasizing the financial burden on taxpayers due to high electric distribution costs for street lighting. The Act encourages municipalities to take ownership of their streetlight systems, allowing them to purchase fixtures from electric utilities and manage maintenance independently. This shift is intended to improve public safety through better illumination, reduce maintenance costs, and promote the use of energy-efficient lighting technologies.

Key provisions of the Act include the ability for public entities to purchase streetlight fixtures from electric utilities after conducting a cost impact study, as well as the requirement for electric utilities to file alternative tariff rates that exclude facility and maintenance charges. The legislation also mandates that any new or replacement fixtures installed by public entities must meet specific standards for energy efficiency and light pollution reduction. Overall, the Act seeks to empower municipalities to manage their streetlight systems more effectively, ultimately leading to cost savings and enhanced service for citizens.