TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING EXEMPTIONS FOR CERTIFICATES OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION TO SUPPLY A PUBLIC SERVICE OR TO EXTEND A PUBLIC SERVICE.

Senate Bill 594 amends Arkansas law regarding when public service providers need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) for new construction or service extensions. The bill clarifies existing exemptions, specifying that a CPCN is not required for certain activities. This includes replacing or expanding existing equipment with similar facilities in the same location, or upgrading facilities to increase capacity without widening an existing right-of-way. It also exempts the extension of public service within an area already lawfully served or when necessary in the ordinary course of business. Additionally, it confirms exemptions for major utility facilities under a separate act and certain equipment owned by exempt wholesale generators.