Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has signed into law three major pieces of legislation aimed at making long-term, transformative investments in Arkansas’ water infrastructure. These laws, passed during the 2025 legislative session, will help modernize outdated systems, expand access to funding, and address the needs of both urban centers and rural communities across the state.
Legislation Targets Long-Term Stability and Rural Support
“If our state is going to continue to grow and thrive, then every Arkansan needs access to safe and reliable water infrastructure,” said Governor Sanders. “I was proud to work with the legislature to support this legislation and invest more than half a billion dollars in Arkansas’ water issues, and I will work closely with the Department of Agriculture to ensure we provide assistance to the communities that need it most.”
Among the bills signed is SB420, now Act 736, which simplifies the process for private entities to transition into public water authorities. This conversion allows them to qualify for expanded state funding opportunities.
The second, HB1681, now Act 812, establishes the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program, which allocates $25 million annually from interest earnings over the next three years. Notably, 20% of that total is earmarked specifically for rural systems serving 1,200 people or fewer.
The most significant financial commitment comes from SB421, now Act 578, which proposes a 2026 ballot initiative to authorize $500 million in water and wastewater project funding through 2043. This investment would be funded by loan repayments without increasing the state’s general revenue. If passed, the initiative would replace the state’s expiring bond authority, which is set to end in the summer of 2027.
Broad Support from State Leaders and Agencies
“Reliable water and wastewater infrastructure is vital for the sustainability of communities and industries throughout our state as well as the quality of life for every Arkansan,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “We appreciate Governor Sanders’ continued leadership to ensure the long-term success of our state.”
Chris Colclasure, Director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division, added, “This legislative package provides critical tools to improve how we plan, fund, and deliver water projects across the state. We appreciate the Governor’s leadership and look forward to working with communities and partners to implement these programs and make meaningful progress where it’s needed most.”
Legislators also voiced their support for the initiatives. “From Arkansas’ fastest growing urban areas to our most rural communities, we have critical water needs,” said Sen. Bart Hester. “I am proud of the work from my colleagues and Governor Sanders on actions taken this session to address these needs that will be felt in our communities very soon.”
Rep. Howard M. Beaty Jr. emphasized the broader impact of the measures, stating, “As Arkansas takes proactive steps to enhance water development programs, the recent approval of SB420 and SB421 by the State Legislature signals a crucial milestone in fostering sustainable water infrastructure.”
“Clean water isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity,” said Rep. DeAnn Vaught. “This legislation is a crucial first step toward repairing what’s broken, preparing for the future, and ensuring every Arkansas community has the water infrastructure it needs to thrive.”
Record of Action on Water Issues
Since taking office, Governor Sanders has overseen $2.5 billion in investments in 478 water and wastewater projects across all 75 counties in Arkansas. In 2023, she launched a comprehensive update of the state’s Water Plan, with completion expected next year. She also initiated Arkansas’ first-ever full inventory of levees to improve preparedness for flooding events.
Governor Sanders has supported critical emergency water investments, including equipment for the Arkansas Rural Water Association and assistance for communities like Helena West-Helena, where she authorized loans, potable water supplies, and National Guard support.
With these new laws, Arkansas takes another significant step toward ensuring that every community – regardless of size or location – has access to clean, safe, and reliable water infrastructure for decades to come.
