SB466
To Place A Moratorium On Certain Heights Of Wind Power Devices; To Require The Arkansas State Game And Fish Commission To Study On The Effects Of Wind Power Devices; And To Declare An Emergency.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
Senate Bill 466 implements a temporary moratorium on the construction of wind power devices that exceed 150 feet in height, effective from March 21, 2025, through July 1, 2027. The restriction does not apply to wind power projects that are already under construction, have broken ground, or are in operation prior to the specified date. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission conduct a study on the long-term effects of wind power devices on wildlife, specifically focusing on migratory waterfowl and predatory birds (raptors). The commission is authorized to partner with other agencies, consultants, or academic institutions to complete this study. An emergency clause is included, citing the need for immediate conservation to protect bird populations and support the state's hunting and tourism economies. The act is set to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or the conclusion of the veto process.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries include wildlife conservation groups, the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission, and sectors of the economy dependent on hunting and nature-based tourism, such as local businesses in areas where waterfowl and raptor migration are prevalent. Additionally, entities concerned with the potential environmental impacts of large-scale wind energy infrastructure may benefit from the pause in development and the subsequent study.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entities negatively impacted are renewable energy companies and wind farm developers who were planning or in the early stages of developing wind power projects exceeding 150 feet in height within Arkansas. Landowners who entered into lease agreements with wind developers for projects that had not yet broken ground by the cutoff date may also face financial disruption or the loss of anticipated lease income.
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