The bill aims to establish standard requirements for physical manifest documents that must be maintained by railroad trains operating on main tracks or branch lines within Arkansas. It includes legislative findings that highlight the dangers and disruptions to commerce posed by trains operating without these documents. The bill amends existing definitions related to railroads and introduces new terms such as "physical manifest document," "branch line," and "main line," which clarify the scope and requirements of the legislation.

Additionally, the bill mandates that a railroad train cannot operate without at least one copy of its physical manifest document and outlines civil penalties for violations, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per day, with higher fines for gross negligence or repeated violations. The collected penalties are designated for use by the Arkansas Department of Transportation for infrastructure projects. An emergency clause is included, emphasizing the necessity of the act for public safety and efficient commerce, allowing it to take effect immediately upon approval or under specific conditions if not vetoed.

Statutes affected:
SB 584: 23-10-101