The proposed bill authorizes the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission to issue general obligation bonds to finance various projects related to water management, waste disposal, pollution control, and irrigation, with a total principal amount capped at $500 million. Of this, $165 million is specifically allocated for irrigation facilities. The bonds will be issued in series, with a maximum of $60 million allowed every two years, starting from July 1 of each odd-numbered year. The bill mandates that the bond issuance question be presented to voters during the 2026 general election or a special election, ensuring public input on this financial decision.
Additionally, the bill introduces the "Arkansas Water, Waste Disposal, and Pollution Abatement Facilities Financing Act of 2025," which outlines the authority and process for bond issuance, including gubernatorial approval and project selection criteria. It establishes a dedicated trust fund for managing bond proceeds, which will be used for project costs and debt service payments. The bill emphasizes the protection of bondholders' rights and ensures that the bonds are exempt from state, county, and municipal taxes. If approved by voters, the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission will proceed with the bond issuance; if not, the subchapter will have no further effect.