AR SB5

Amends Arkansas Code § 12-80-104(a)(2) to allow Category I and II occupancy buildings used for manufacturing, industrial, or public works purposes to use less stringent seismic design standards based on a ten percent probability of exceeding the design seismic event in a fifty-year period instead of two percent probability standards.

Permits use of alternate design standards if properly adopted by ordinance in the locality where the building will be constructed.

Modifies seismic design calculations by allowing SDS to equal SMS and SD1 to equal SM1 instead of applying the two-thirds adjustment from the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, and requires design seismic base shear to meet minimum standards from the 1997 Standard Building Code.

Declares an emergency effective upon Governor approval, finding that current seismic design requirements are overly restrictive and burden businesses considering construction in Arkansas.