HB1531: Attracting retirees to the Natural State

I filed HB1531 on Friday after planning and discussing it with local officials in Texarkana in an effort to enhance retired living in Arkansas. This bill is patterned after a similar program in Texas that has helped communities like Tyler attract new residents and new economic development. Tyler was qualified as the first Certified Retirement Community in the state of Texas and has been outspoken in its support of the program.

Arkansas has long been considered a prime retirement destination for those seeking a home with four true seasons (with an emphasis on Summer!).

Here's how it works:
(1) The legislation creates the Arkansas Retirement Community Program to be maintained under the purview of the Arkansas Department of Economic Development;

(2) The program's main focus is to promote and encourage tourism and retired living in Arkansas communities that have met the criteria for certification;

(3) To be eligible for certification, each community must complete a retiree desirability assessment, to include facts regarding the following:

(i) crime statistics;
(ii) tax information;
(iii) recreational opportunities;
(iv) housing availability;
(v) climate;
(vi) working opportunities;
(vii) healthcare services;
(viii) transportation;
(ix) continuing education;
(x) leisure living;
(xi) performing arts;
(xii) festivals and events;
(xiii) sports at all levels; and
(xiv) other services and facilities that are necessary to enable persons to age in the least restrictive environment.

Once approved, ADED will work in conjunction with the cities in the training of local staff and volunteers and help with ongoing oversight with marketing. The legislation requires recertification every five years. An application fee paid by the applicant city will fund this program through the creation of a fund maintained under the General Revenue Fund Account of the State Apportionment Fund.