AR SR11

Authorizes introduction of a bill to amend the Arkansas Data Centers Act of 2023 by adding Section 14-1-606 to create an annual fee structure for digital asset mining businesses based on electrical energy usage levels.

Establishes tiered fee schedule: $25,000 for 1-2.49 MW, $50,000 for 2.5-4.99 MW, $75,000 for 5-10 MW, and $100,000 for usage exceeding 10 MW per calendar month.

Requires businesses beginning operations after the effective date to submit good faith electrical energy usage estimates and applicable fees before commencing operations, with refunds provided if estimates are overstated.

Imposes penalties of at least $25,000 per violation for knowingly making false statements about energy usage, and creates criminal liability of Class A misdemeanor for first offense and Class D felony for subsequent offenses.

Directs fee proceeds to be split: 50% to State Securities Department, 25% to Attorney General's Office, and 25% to Department of Energy and Environment for oversight, monitoring, and fraud investigation activities.

Requires the Department of Energy and Environment to promulgate implementing rules by January 1, 2025, subject to Legislative Council approval.