AR HB1818

Amends Arkansas Code § 23-3-201(b) to reorganize and clarify exemptions from certificate of public convenience and necessity requirements for utility construction and service expansion

Exempts replacement, expansion, rebuilding, upgrading, or modernization of existing equipment or facilities in substantially the same location if no increase in right-of-way width is required

Exempts extension of public services within municipalities, districts, or territories already being served, or extensions necessary in the ordinary course of business

Creates new exemption for electric utilities owning property rights allowing construction of transmission and distribution substations, switching stations, and metering points with associated facilities up to specified line miles depending on voltage and utility type

Exempts non-cooperative electric utilities from certification requirements for up to 2 line miles of transmission lines over 100 kilovolts or up to 5 line miles of transmission lines at or below 100 kilovolts; exempts electric cooperatives for up to 5 line miles of transmission lines if landowners are notified