HB1387
To Require Members Of The Board Of Directors Of A Public Water Authority To Publish Their Contact Information Under The Water Authority Act.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1387, proposes amendments to existing Arkansas law concerning public water authorities. Specifically, it mandates that members of the board of directors for any public water authority must publish their contact information. This contact information is defined to include the member's name and telephone number. The bill requires this contact information to be posted on the official websites of both the public water authority and the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission. Furthermore, any updates to this contact information must be made within ten business days of a change. The stated purpose of this act is to require this disclosure under the Water Authority Act. The bill aims to increase transparency regarding the individuals who serve on the boards of public water authorities.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be the general public and consumers of public water services. By requiring board members to publish their contact information, citizens will have a direct channel to communicate with their elected or appointed representatives on these boards. This increased accessibility could facilitate better communication, allow for more efficient resolution of concerns, and potentially foster greater public trust and engagement with water authorities. Additionally, oversight bodies or advocacy groups focused on public utilities might also benefit from this enhanced transparency.
Who Might Suffer?
The individuals most directly and negatively impacted by this bill would be the members of the board of directors of public water authorities. They would be subject to the new requirement of publicly disclosing their personal contact information, specifically their name and telephone number. This could lead to an increase in unsolicited calls, potential for harassment, and a diminished sense of privacy. While intended to enhance transparency, it might also create a disincentive for individuals to serve on these boards due to privacy concerns or the burden of managing increased public contact.