The "Strengthen Arkansas Homes Act" proposes the establishment of the Strengthen Arkansas Homes Program Fund, managed by the Insurance Commissioner, to support the mitigation of losses to insurable dwellings from catastrophic wind events. The fund will be sourced from donations, grants, and governmental appropriations, and aims to provide financial assistance to property owners and nonprofit organizations for upgrading homes to meet FORTIFIED Home construction standards. The Act introduces a new subchapter within Arkansas Code Title 23, detailing the program's purpose, eligibility criteria, and grant application processes. Property owners must meet specific requirements, including ownership of an insurable dwelling, compliance with local building codes, and obtaining wind and flood insurance, with all mitigation projects required to be completed within three months of grant approval.
Furthermore, the bill sets forth new requirements for contractors and evaluators involved in the program, including registration to do business in Arkansas, maintaining a general liability policy, and holding relevant certifications. It also mandates property insurers to provide premium discounts for properties certified as compliant with FORTIFIED Home standards and to offer optional riders for non-FORTIFIED dwellings. The Insurance Commissioner is responsible for implementing these provisions, which are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.