AR HB1655

Amends Arkansas Code § 14-40-205 to clarify that annexation laws do not apply within one-half mile of a state park located in a county with a population exceeding 350,000 persons, unless one of four conditions is met.

Allows annexation if approved by a majority of voters in the one-half mile area, if the area is on the opposite side of a navigable river from the state park, if the area is on the opposite side and south of an existing railroad right-of-way from the state park, or if the area contains a public or private school.

Voids any county court order issued after August 1, 1997 that contradicts the one-half mile annexation restriction, except orders annexing areas on the opposite side of and south of an existing railroad right-of-way, which are declared valid.

Approved March 20, 2017.