This bill amends the law regarding volunteer fire departments in Arkansas, specifically allowing those that service unincorporated areas of the county to levy dues. The amendments clarify that the quorum court can authorize a designated county official to collect and remit these dues to the volunteer fire department, provided that the department's fire protection district covers an unincorporated area. The bill outlines the process for requesting the levy of dues, including the requirement for a signed request from the fire chief and board members, and stipulates that if a majority of registered voters in the district sign a petition, a special election may be bypassed.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the dues will be included on real property tax statements and collected by the county collector, with provisions for the collection of delinquent dues. It also allows for exemptions from dues for churches served by the volunteer fire department if they are exempt from real property taxes. The bill mandates that volunteer fire departments file an annual report with the county clerk detailing their board members, chief contact information, and the amount of dues charged, ensuring transparency and accountability in the collection process.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1416 V2 - 3-19-2025 03:56 PM: 14-20-108(a), 14-20-108(f)
Old version HB1416 Original - 2-5-2025 01:50 PM: 14-20-108(a), 14-20-108(f), 14-20-108(j), 14-284-406(a)
HB 1416: 14-20-108(a), 14-20-108(f), 14-20-108(j), 14-284-406(a)
Act 673: 14-20-108(a), 14-20-108(f)