SB376 Summary

• Creates the Water Provider Legislative Task Force to study and develop a blueprint for water security and economic development in Arkansas, with a deadline to report findings by January 1, 2019.

• Establishes legislative intent regarding water provider obligations, including that providers need not serve areas outside their agreed service territory and may set varying rates by location unless otherwise contractually bound.

• Prohibits discrimination against water customers based on race, gender, marital status, religion, or political subdivision of residence, while allowing different rules for different customer types and geographic rate variations.

• Task force composed of 18 members including legislative leaders, agency directors, representatives from water associations, municipal and county organizations, builders, and a consumer advocate, with legislative members serving as chair and vice chair.

• Task force must conduct meetings at least quarterly at the State Capitol or other designated location, with legislative members receiving per diem and mileage reimbursement and nonlegislative members serving without compensation.