HB1827

House Bill 1827 transfers the administrative authority and oversight duties of the Arkansas Poultry Feeding Operations Registration Act from the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. The bill updates relevant terminology and definitions to reflect this change in governance. It mandates that existing rules, regulations, and registration requirements remain in effect during the transition, and it directs the Department of Agriculture to manage the annual registration program for poultry feeding operations. Additionally, the bill maintains requirements for poultry operators to report data on poultry numbers, litter management systems, and land application practices. It also modifies enforcement provisions, clarifying that Department of Agriculture employees may conduct site inspections while adhering to biosecurity protocols and notification requirements. Finally, the legislation provides for the collection of administrative penalties and fees to be used for nutrient management programs.