The bill amends various laws concerning the Department of Agriculture, specifically addressing the control of contagious diseases, the classification of fines related to forest resources, and the establishment of a new fund for law enforcement. It updates the authority of veterinary inspectors by replacing references to the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission with the Department of Agriculture. Additionally, it modifies the penalties for non-compliance with disease control rules, establishing a fine of up to $300 and liability for damages due to infection from livestock.

Furthermore, the bill creates the Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Fund, which will collect fines from law enforcement activities and be used exclusively for the department's law enforcement functions. It also includes provisions for awarding the service pistol of a law enforcement officer upon their retirement or death to either the officer or their eligible spouse. This legislation aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Department of Agriculture and recognize the service of its law enforcement personnel.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1516 Original - 2-18-2025 10:49 AM: 2-40-106, 15-31-113, 15-31-114, 19-6-301
Old version HB1516 V2 - 2-25-2025 09:23 AM: 2-40-106, 02-25-2025, 15-31-113, 15-31-114, 19-6-301
HB 1516: 2-40-106, 15-31-113, 15-31-114, 19-6-301
Act 326: 2-40-106, 02-25-2025, 15-31-113, 15-31-114, 19-6-301