AR SB493

Creates the Code Enforcement Licensing Board and Code Enforcement Licensing Board Fund, consolidating six separate trade licensing entities: Board of Electrical Examiners, HVACR Licensing Board, Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board, Elevator Safety Board, Boiler Inspection Division, and plumbing-related functions from the State Board of Health

Abolishes the Board of Electrical Examiners, HVACR Licensing Board, Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board, Elevator Safety Board, and Committee of Plumbing Examiners, transferring all authority, personnel, property, and unexpended funds to the new consolidated board

Establishes an 11-member Code Enforcement Licensing Board appointed by the Governor, with representatives from electrical contractors, HVACR license holders, master plumbers, elevator manufacturers and mechanics, professional engineers, and fire protection systems professionals

Increases HVACR Class B license capacity from 15 tons cooling to 25 tons, expands distance limits for HVACR electrical and gas connections from 10 feet to 75 feet, eliminates the HVACR Class C license category, and transfers existing Class C holders to Class B status as of September 1, 2025

Declares an emergency with effective date of July 1, 2025 to coincide with Department of Labor and Licensing appropriation bills and ensure continuous service delivery during the transition