HB1701

House Bill 1701 establishes a new oversight framework for wastewater and sewer retail providers in Arkansas, similar to existing regulations for water providers. It mandates that providers conduct periodic rate studies to ensure revenue is sufficient for operations, maintenance, debt service, and capital improvements. The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission is tasked with maintaining a list of providers in 'fiscal distress' based on failure to meet these financial or compliance requirements. Providers identified as distressed must submit improvement plans and are subject to state-imposed restrictions on incurring debt or transferring assets. The bill further requires board members of these providers to undergo mandatory training and encourages efforts toward workforce recruitment and retention. It outlines specific exemptions, such as systems already regulated by the Public Service Commission or those primarily serving non-residential customers.