This bill amends the law regarding municipal port authorities in Arkansas by allowing them to establish their own police forces. It introduces a new section, 14-186-216, which outlines the powers and duties of municipal port authority law enforcement officers. The bill permits these authorities to appoint law enforcement officers to assist in protecting the persons, property, and facilities associated with the port. Additionally, it allows for the application of grants to support the funding of the police force and specifies that the funding can come from fees collected by the port authority and grant funds.

The bill also details the responsibilities of the appointed law enforcement officers, which include protecting property, maintaining order, preventing unlawful assemblies, and cooperating with other law enforcement agencies. Officers will have the authority to arrest individuals for violations occurring on port property, carry weapons, and regulate vehicle and watercraft operations on port grounds. Furthermore, the municipal port authority is empowered to create rules governing the operation and organization of its police force.