AR HB1943

Grants the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission authority to apply to courts for appointment of a receiver to take charge of public water or sewer systems that have failed for at least 6 months to provide adequate financial, managerial, or technical operation.

Allows appointment of a receiver if a system fails to comply with the Public Water System Service Act or the Arkansas Water and Air Pollution Control Act for at least 6 months.

Permits the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission itself to serve as receiver without posting a bond, though other receivers must be sworn and post a bond approved by the court.

Authorizes receivers to administer systems, make improvements, operate and maintain facilities, charge rates and fees, and sell, transfer, convey, donate, or merge systems with court approval and Arkansas Natural Resources Commission application.

Enables courts to immediately appoint a receiver upon certification by the Department of Health that a water system poses an immediate public health threat or by the Department of Environmental Quality that a sewer system is discharging unacceptable pollutant quantities.