AR SB643

Changes county quorum courts from "may" to "shall" adopt an ordinance authorizing collection of volunteer fire department dues upon request by one or more volunteer fire departments in the county.

Requires quorum courts to call for an election on volunteer fire department dues within 60 days of receiving a signed request from the fire chief and board leadership, with the special election to be held by August 1.

Establishes maximum annual dues of $150 per residence and $300 per business having an occupiable structure when collected as a prerequisite to real property tax payment; dues exceeding these amounts may be collected but not required for tax payment.

Allows volunteer fire departments to dispense with elections if an attested petition is filed and signed by a majority of registered voters in the fire department district.

Permits volunteer fire departments to collect delinquent dues and enforce collection through court proceedings, and allows active members to be exempt from dues at the fire department's discretion.