Arkansas could lighten short-term rental regulations

Lawmakers argue the bill would give local leaders greater flexibility

A proposal before the Arkansas House of Representatives could lighten short-term rental regulations if it becomes law.

The bill, known as House Bill 1445, was introduced by State Rep. Brit McKenzie and state Sen. Joshua Bryant. The proposed legislation would block certain regulations on STRs by the government. 

The two lawmakers argue the state's existing STR rules violate property rights outlined in the Arkansas and U.S. constitutions. 

Bryant said in a news release that he and McKenzie want Arkansas to be a welcoming place for visitors. 

“To that end, we want to ensure property rights for over a million Arkansans. House Bill 1445 ensures that our state's natural beauty remains accessible, fostering a vibrant tourism sector while respecting the property rights of our citizens,” Bryant added. 

The bill would allow for greater flexibility within local municipalities so they can regulate short-term rentals, according to McKenzie. But some local leaders are concerned it would do just the opposite. 

New and Proposed Regulations:

• Flagstaff, Arizona: A housing commission advanced a proposal that argues the city’s housing emergency is “exacerbated” by short-term rentals and urges the legislature to address the impact of STRs. (link)  
• Lewisville, Texas: City council members are considering capping the number of short-term rental permits issued, as well as other restrictions to ensure rentals don’t impact local residents. (link)
• Indian Rocks Beach, Florida: City commissioners are considering rolling back regulations on short-term rentals including relaxing the maximum occupancy at properties. (link) 
  

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• Wall Street surge: Airbnb stock rose after the company announced plans to invest up to $250 million into growing new businesses and capturing a greater share of the travel market. (link) 
• Lobby baby: Local residents are accusing lawmakers of acquiescing to multi-million-dollar lobbying efforts to sink proposed legislation to legalize more short-term rentals in New York’s boroughs. (link)