AR SB437

Requires permits from the Arkansas Public Service Commission (and local governments where applicable) to construct, operate, or redevelop wind energy facilities with rated capacity of 5 MW or more and height exceeding 200 feet

Establishes minimum setbacks of 2,500 feet or 3.5 times turbine height from nonparticipating landowners' property lines, and one mile from schools, hospitals, churches, nursing homes, city limits, parks, and airports

Mandates environmental impact assessments covering economic impacts, wildlife, viewsheds, water resources, noise levels (capped at 35 dBA at dwellings, 45 dBA at property lines), shadow flicker (maximum 30 hours annually), and emergency risk mitigation

Requires 100% financial security for decommissioning costs before construction, with facilities to be removed within 12 months if they cease generating electricity for 180 consecutive days

Exempts wind energy facilities constructed before September 1, 2024, or projects under development as of April 9, 2025, with rules to be implemented by January 1, 2026