reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 3 - DIVERSITY IN LICENSED HEALTH PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-301 — 17-80-302) › Section 17-80-302 - Minority members of state health-related agencies, boards, and commissions

(a)
The appointing authorities for state health-related agencies, boards, and commissions shall consider appointment recommendations submitted by minority health-related professional associations.
(b)
The recommending organizations under this section include without limitation:
(1)
The Arkansas Medical, Dental, and Pharmaceutical Association;
(2)
The Arkansas Association of Black Social Workers, Inc.;
(3)
The Arkansas Black Nurses Association;
(4)
The National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Arkansas Chapter;
(5)
The National Pharmacists Association of Arkansas; and
(6)
The Arkansas State Board of Nursing.
(c)
Recommendations for appointments under this section shall:
(1)
Be submitted to the appointing authorities at least thirty (30) days before the expiration of a position in a state health-related agency, board, or commission relevant to the field or practice of the recommending body;
(2)
Be submitted to the appointing authorities anytime before the appointing authority fills a position that has opened due to resignation or removal before the end of the originally appointed term;
(3)
Be submitted by an officially designated officer or committee on behalf of the recommending organization; and
(4)
Include correspondence on official organizational letterhead and the resume or curriculum vitae of a recommended candidate.
(d)
If a recommendation for appointment under subsection (b) of this section is not received within the time allotted for the appointment, the appointing authority may make the appointment without a recommendation.
(e)
The health-related agencies, boards, and commissions for which recommendations may be considered under this section include the:
(1)
Arkansas Board of Podiatric Medicine;
(2)
Arkansas Psychology Board;
(3)
Arkansas Social Work Licensing Board;
(4)
Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners;
(5)
Arkansas State Medical Board;
(6)
Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy;
(7)
Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; and
(8)
State Board of Optometry.
(f)
This section does not change or affect any existing delineations for minority appointments.
Acts 2009, No. 1490, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 4 - TELEMEDICINE ACT (§§ 17-80-401 — 17-80-407) › Section 17-80-401 - Title

This subchapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Telemedicine Act".
Added by Act 2017, No. 203,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 4 - TELEMEDICINE ACT (§§ 17-80-401 — 17-80-407) › Section 17-80-403 - Establishment of professional relationship

(a)
(1)
A healthcare professional at a distant site shall not utilize telemedicine with respect to a patient located in Arkansas unless a professional relationship exists between the healthcare professional and the patient or the healthcare professional otherwise meets the requirements of a professional relationship as defined in §
17-80-402
.
(2)
The existence of a professional relationship is not required in the following circumstances:
(A)
Emergency situations where the life or health of the patient is in danger or imminent danger; or
(B)
Simply providing information of a generic nature, not meant to be specific to an individual patient.
(b)
If the establishment of the professional relationship is permitted via telemedicine under §
17-80-402(4)(E)
or §
17-80-402(4)(F)
, telemedicine may be used to establish the professional relationship only for situations in which the standard of care does not require an in-person encounter.
(c)
"Professional relationship" does not include a relationship between a healthcare professional and a patient established only by the following:
(1)
An internet questionnaire;
(2)
An email message;
(3)
Patient-generated medical history;
(4)
Text messaging;
(5)
A facsimile machine; or
(6)
Any combination of means listed in subdivisions (c)(1)-(5) of this section.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 829,§ 2, eff. 4/21/2021.
Added by Act 2017, No. 203,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 4 - TELEMEDICINE ACT (§§ 17-80-401 — 17-80-407) › Section 17-80-405 - Liability - Noncompliance

(a)
If a decision is made to provide healthcare services through telemedicine, the healthcare professional accepts responsibility and liability for the care of the patient.
(b)
Noncompliance with this subchapter is a violation of the practice act of the healthcare professional.
Added by Act 2017, No. 203,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 4 - TELEMEDICINE ACT (§§ 17-80-401 — 17-80-407) › Section 17-80-406 - Rules

State licensing and certification boards for a healthcare professional shall amend their rules where necessary to comply with this subchapter.
Added by Act 2017, No. 203,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 4 - TELEMEDICINE ACT (§§ 17-80-401 — 17-80-407) › Section 17-80-407 - Construction

This subchapter does not:
(1)
Alter existing state law or rules governing a healthcare professional's scope of practice; or
(2)
Authorize drug-induced, chemical, or surgical abortions performed through telemedicine.
Added by Act 2017, No. 203,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 5 - MEDICAL ETHICS AND DIVERSITY ACT (§§ 17-80-501 — 17-80-506) › Section 17-80-501 - Title

This subchapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Medical Ethics and Diversity Act".
Added by Act 2021, No. 462,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 5 - MEDICAL ETHICS AND DIVERSITY ACT (§§ 17-80-501 — 17-80-506) › Section 17-80-502 - Legislative findings and purpose

(a)
The General Assembly finds that:
(1)
The right of conscience is a fundamental and unalienable right;
(2)
The right of conscience was central to the founding of the United States, has been deeply rooted in the history and tradition of the United States for centuries, and has been central to the practice of medicine through the Hippocratic oath for millennia;
(3)
Despite its importance, threats to the right of conscience of medical practitioners, healthcare institutions, and healthcare payers have become increasingly more common and severe in recent years;
(4)
The swift pace of scientific advancement and the expansion of medical capabilities, along with the notion that medical practitioners, healthcare institutions, and healthcare payers are mere public utilities, promise only to exacerbate the current crisis unless something is done to restore the importance of the right of conscience; and
(5)
It is the public policy of this state to protect the right of conscience of medical practitioners, healthcare institutions, and healthcare payers.
(b)
It is the purpose of this subchapter to protect all medical practitioners, healthcare institutions, and healthcare payers from discrimination, punishment, or retaliation as a result of any instance of conscientious medical objection.
Added by Act 2021, No. 462,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 5 - MEDICAL ETHICS AND DIVERSITY ACT (§§ 17-80-501 — 17-80-506) › Section 17-80-505 - Civil remedies

(a)
(1)
A civil action for damages or injunctive relief, or both, may be brought by a medical practitioner, healthcare institution, or healthcare payer for a violation of this subchapter.
(2)
A claim that the violation of this subchapter was necessary to prevent an additional burden or expense on another medical practitioner, healthcare institution, healthcare payer, or individual, including without limitation a patient, is not an affirmative defense.
(b)
(1)
(A)
Upon a finding of a violation of this subchapter, the aggrieved party shall be entitled to recover three (3) times the amount of any damages incurred, including without limitation damages related to:
(i)
The cost of the civil action; and
(ii)
Reasonable attorney's fees.
(B)
The total amount of damages shall not be less than five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each violation in addition to the costs of the civil action and reasonable attorney's fees.
(2)
Damages shall be cumulative and are not exclusive of other remedies that may be afforded under state or federal law.
(c)
A court may award injunctive relief, including without limitation ordering the reinstatement of a medical practitioner to his or her prior employment position or board certification or relicensure of a healthcare institution or healthcare payer.
Added by Act 2021, No. 462,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 80 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-80-506) › Subchapter 5 - MEDICAL ETHICS AND DIVERSITY ACT (§§ 17-80-501 — 17-80-506) › Section 17-80-506 - Applicability

This subchapter is supplemental to existing protections of the right of conscience within the Arkansas Code and does not affect the existing laws within the state concerning protection of the right of conscience.
Added by Act 2021, No. 462,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-108) › Section 17-81-101 - Short title

This chapter shall be known as the "Arkansas Chiropractic Practices Act".
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-415.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-108) › Section 17-81-103 - Effect on existing licenses

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to invalidate or affect the license of any person holding a valid unrevoked or unsuspended license to practice chiropractic in this state on July 19, 1971. Persons holding valid licenses shall be subject to all provisions of this chapter except as provided in this chapter.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 15; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-429.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-108) › Section 17-81-104 - False advertising

No person defined in §
17-81-102(5)
as a physician may solicit for patronage or advertise for patronage by any means whatever which is misleading, fraudulent, deceptive, or dishonest.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 20; 1981, No. 568, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-434.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-108) › Section 17-81-105 - Prosecution of violations

(a)
Subject to reasonable prosecutorial discretion, it is the duty of the prosecuting attorneys of the State of Arkansas to prosecute to final judgment every criminal violation of this chapter committed within their jurisdictions when requested and authorized by the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
(b)
(1)
The board may also take administrative action against a person that violates this subchapter, §
5-37-505
, or §
5-37-506
.
(2)
Upon a finding that a chiropractic physician has violated this subchapter, §
5-37-505
, or §
5-37-506
, the board may order:
(A)
Sanctions;
(B)
A license suspension; or
(C)
A license revocation.
(c)
The board has immunity from civil liability for any requested prosecutorial action resulting from this section.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 513,§ 2, eff. 8/16/2013.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 23; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-437.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-108) › Section 17-81-106 - Health and police rules applicable

Chiropractic physicians licensed under this chapter shall be:
(1)
Bound by all applicable health and police rules of the state; and
(2)
Qualified to sign death certificates, insurance certificates, and all other certificates pertaining to public health with like effect as other licensed physicians.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 589,§ 2, eff. 7/28/2021.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1507, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 19; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-433.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-108) › Section 17-81-108 - Rulemaking and enforcement

The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall establish rules to enforce the requirements of this chapter.
Added by Act 2013, No. 513,§ 3, eff. 8/16/2013.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-201 - Creation - Members - Appointment

(a)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners is established.
(b)
(1)
The board shall be composed of seven (7) members appointed by the Governor subject to confirmation by the Senate for terms of five (5) years.
(2)
(A)
Five (5) members shall be qualified chiropractors.
(B)
The Governor shall consult the Arkansas Chiropractic Physicians Association and the Arkansas Chiropractic Society before making an appointment under this subdivision (b)(2).
(3)
(A)
Two (2) members of the board shall not be actively engaged in or retired from the profession of chiropractic.
(B)
One (1) member shall represent consumers, and one (1) member shall be sixty (60) years of age or older and shall be the representative of the elderly.
(C)
Both members shall be appointed from the state at large subject to confirmation by the Senate.
(D)
The two (2) positions may not be held by the same person.
(E)
Both shall be full voting members.
(c)
When a vacancy occurs on the board for any reason, the vacancy may be filled by appointment by the Governor for the unexpired term. Vacancies of professional members may be filled from a list of three (3) names of qualified chiropractors submitted by the various chartered chiropractic state organizations.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 441,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 397,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.
Amended by Act 2015, No. 1100,§ 30, eff. 7/22/2015.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 4; 1975 (Extended Sess., 1976), No. 1080, § 1; 1977, No. 113, §§ 1-3; 1979, No. 761, § 1; 1981, No. 717, § 2; 1983, No. 131, §§ 1-3, 5; 1983, No. 135, §§ 1-3, 5; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 6-617 -- 6-619, 6-623 -- 6-626, 72-418; reen. Acts 1987, No. 869, § 1; 1999, No. 1553, § 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-202 - Members - Qualifications

(a)
Each member of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall be a citizen of the United States, a resident of this state, and shall, before entering upon the duties of the office, take the oath prescribed by the Arkansas Constitution for state officers and shall file it with the Secretary of State who shall thereupon issue to each person so appointed a certificate of appointment.
(b)
Each professional member shall possess the following additional qualifications:
(1)
The member must be a graduate of a reputable school or college of chiropractic. However, no more than two (2) members of the board shall be graduates of the same school or college of chiropractic; and
(2)
The member must have been a regularly licensed and practicing chiropractor in Arkansas for a period of five (5) years next preceding the date of his or her appointment.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 5; 1979, No. 760, § 1; 1981, No. 51, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-419.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-203 - Members - Liability

No member of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, during the term of his or her office or thereafter, shall be liable for damages as a result of any official act in the performance of his or her duty as such a member. Any action therefor shall upon motion be dismissed with prejudice at the cost of the plaintiff.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 24; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-438.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-204 - Organization - Meetings

(a)
The Department of Health shall maintain and operate an office for the administration of the business of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
(b)
It shall meet in July of each year and from its members elect a president, secretary, and treasurer. The officers so elected shall hold office for a period of one (1) year or until their successors are elected and have qualified.
(c)
(1)
It shall be the duty of the board to meet regularly one (1) time in every six (6) months for the purpose of conducting the business of the board.
(2)
Special meetings of the board may be called at any time at the pleasure of the President of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners or by the Secretary of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners on the request of any two (2) members of the board.
(3)
Four (4) members shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the board.
(d)
The board shall determine by its own rules the time and manner of giving notice to its members.
(e)
Any action of the board, except the issuance of temporary licenses, shall require an affirmative vote of a majority of the full membership of the board.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 4866, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1971, No. 706, §§ 6, 7; 1981, No. 51, § 3; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 72-420, 72-421; Acts 1987, No. 354, § 3; 1989 (3rd Ex. Sess.), No. 30, § 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-205 - Minutes - Records

(a)
The Director of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall keep a record of the minutes of the meetings of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners and a record of the names of all persons making application for license under the provisions of this chapter together with a record of the action of the board thereon.
(b)
The director shall also keep a roll of the names of all licensed and deceased chiropractors who have been licensed to practice in the State of Arkansas.
(c)
The record shall at all reasonable times be open for public inspection.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 4867, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 8; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-422; Acts 1999, No. 1553, § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-207 - Director

(a)
Pursuant to its authority set forth in §
17-81-206(b)(8)
, the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners of the Department of Health may employ a Director of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
(b)
(1)
The director in consultation with and review of the Treasurer of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall collect all fees and fines on behalf of the board and submit all payment requests on behalf of the board for its state appropriations.
(2)
The director shall give in writing at the annual meeting of the board a fully itemized report of his or her receipts and disbursements for the preceding year showing the amount of money on hand and shall submit reports for inspection at other times as may be requested by the board or by any of its members.
(3)
Copies of the annual reports, actions of the board, and number licensed for the year, certified by the Secretary of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, shall be submitted by the director to the various chiropractic professional organizations in Arkansas and the Secretary of the Department of Health.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 4870, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 397,§ 4, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 25; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-439; Acts 1999, No. 1553, § 5.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-208 - Disposition of funds

(a)
All fees and fines authorized by this chapter are the property of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners and shall be paid to the office of the Director of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners who shall collect and dispose of such funds on behalf of the board as provided in this chapter. Any surplus in the treasury of the board at the end of the fiscal year shall remain in the treasury and may be expended in succeeding years for the purposes herein set out.
(b)
All funds received by the board shall be expended in the furtherance of the purposes of this chapter and the board's duties thereunder, which include, but are not limited to:
(1)
The publication and distribution of the Arkansas Chiropractic Practices Act, §
17-81-101
et seq.;
(2)
The publication and yearly distribution of a directory of all licensed chiropractic practitioners;
(3)
Investigations of violations of this chapter;
(4)
Institution of actions to compel compliance with the provisions of this chapter; and
(5)
Defense of actions brought against it as a result of its actions under the provisions of this chapter.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 4871, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 18; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-432; Acts 1999, No. 1553, § 6.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 2 - ARKANSAS STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS (§§ 17-81-201 — 17-81-209) › Section 17-81-209 - Preceptorship program

(a)
(1)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners may authorize a chiropractic student preceptorship program established by an approved chiropractic college to allow a student in the final clinical phase of chiropractic training to practice under the direct, on-site supervision of a chiropractor licensed in this state.
(2)
A student from a chiropractic college accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education is eligible for a chiropractic student preceptorship program.
(b)
The board shall establish by rule the standards for the:
(1)
Approval of a chiropractic student preceptorship program established by an approved chiropractic college;
(2)
Eligibility of a chiropractic student to be admitted to a chiropractic student preceptorship program;
(3)
(A)
Application process for a chiropractic student to be enrolled in a chiropractic student preceptorship program.
(B)
The application process may include an application fee as determined by the board;
(4)
Activities, duties, and scope of practice restrictions of a chiropractic student in a chiropractic student preceptorship program; and
(5)
Identification of a chiropractic student in a chiropractic student preceptorship program.
(c)
A chiropractic student preceptorship program is not considered approved by the board until the chiropractic college that has applied to establish a chiropractic student preceptorship program receives a written letter of approval from the board.
(d)
All activities and duties performed by a chiropractic student in a chiropractic student preceptorship program shall be under the direct, on-site supervision of a chiropractor.
Added by Act 2019, No. 645,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-301 - License required

In order to safeguard life and health, any person practicing or offering to practice chiropractic in the state shall be required to submit evidence that he or she is qualified to practice and shall be licensed as provided in this chapter.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 2; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-416; Acts 2001, No. 197, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-302 - Exempted activities

This chapter does not prohibit or require a license with respect to any of the following acts:
(1)
The performance of services in case of an emergency;
(2)
(A)
The performance of services in this state on an occasional basis, limited to thirty (30) days in each calendar year, by a chiropractor who is lawfully practicing chiropractic in another state or territory.
(B)
(i)
Within seven (7) days before travel described in subdivision (2)(A) of this section, the chiropractor shall send a written notice through mail or electronic means to the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners stating at a minimum the date or dates of travel to Arkansas, who will perform the services, and where the services will be performed.
(ii)
A chiropractor who submits a written notice shall also provide proof of malpractice insurance.
(C)
However, if any such chiropractor performs services on a regular basis, or for his or her regular use maintains or is provided with any office or other place to meet persons for the performance of such services in the State of Arkansas, he or she shall obtain a license to practice chiropractic in the State of Arkansas;
(3)
The practice of medicine and surgery, osteopathy, dentistry, podiatry, optometry, Christian Science, physical therapy, cosmetology, therapy technology, or any other branch of the healing arts as defined by the laws of this state. This chapter does not limit, restrict, enlarge, or alter the privileges and practices of any of these professions or branches of the healing arts; or
(4)
The practice of chiropractic through a program in partnership with federal Innovative Readiness Training if the chiropractor has obtained a license to practice from another state, commonwealth, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 397,§ 5, eff. 8/1/2017.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 205,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 26; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-440; Acts 1999, No. 1553, § 7.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-304 - Application - Fees

(a)
(1)
(A)
Applications for a license to practice chiropractic in the State of Arkansas shall be made to the Director of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners in writing on forms furnished by the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
(B)
The application shall be signed by the applicant in his or her own handwriting and acknowledged before an officer authorized to administer oaths.
(2)
The applicant must submit proof satisfactory to the board of graduation from a chartered school or college of chiropractic as herein described and file with his or her application the affidavits of at least two (2) licensed and reputable doctors of chiropractic.
(3)
The application shall be accompanied by the payment of one hundred fifty dollars ($150), and fifty dollars ($50.00) for an orientation fee.
(4)
The application shall be filed with the director not less than thirty (30) days before the next regular meeting of the board.
(b)
If the applicant is approved, no part of the fee shall be returned, and he or she shall be issued a license to practice chiropractic in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(c)
If the applicant is not approved, he or she shall be notified of the reasons for the disapproval.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 86,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 990,§ 59, eff. 7/24/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 4872, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2016F, No. 200,§ 4, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 9; 1977, No. 199, § 3; 1983, No. 504, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-423; Acts 1987, No. 354, §§ 4, 5; 1999, No. 1553, § 8.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-305 - Qualifications of applicants

(a)
To qualify for licensure, an applicant shall:
(1)
Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age;
(2)
Have successfully completed not less than a minimum of sixty (60) semester credit hours of college education, to include a minimum of thirty (30) semester credit hours in the field of science;
(3)
Not have had a license to practice chiropractic in any other state suspended or revoked nor have been placed on probation for any cause;
(4)
Possess a valid "doctor of chiropractic" degree from a chiropractic institution whose requirements include a course of instruction of not fewer than four (4) years of nine (9) academic months each or not fewer than four thousand four hundred (4,400) fifty-minute resident class hours and include one hundred twenty (120) classroom hours of physiological therapeutics;
(5)
Possess a valid National Board of Chiropractic Examiners certificate, to include Parts I, II, III, and IV and the physiological therapeutics section;
(6)
[Repealed.]
(7)
Not have been convicted of a felony;
(8)
Not be an habitual user of intoxicants, drugs, or hallucinatory preparations;
(9)
Pay the application fee as provided in §
17-81-304
; and
(10)
Cause a certified chiropractic college transcript or National Board of Chiropractic Examiners transcript to be submitted directly from the respective institutions.
(b)
An applicant graduated, as of July 19, 1971, from a school or college of chiropractic, the requirements and course of instruction of which were equal and comparable to other recognized schools or colleges of chiropractic at the time of his or her attendance, may be acceptable.
(c)
For students enrolled in any approved chiropractic school or college which may not, at the passage date of this act, meet the requirements as set forth in subdivision (a)(4) of this section, the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners may waive the requirement in individual cases at its discretion.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 990,§ 60, eff. 7/24/2019.
Amended by Act 2016F, No. 200,§ 5, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 10; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-424; Acts 1987, No. 354, § 6; 1989, No. 763, § 1; 1991, No. 786, § 25; 1993, No. 1219, § 14; 1999, No. 1553, § 9.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-306 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Act 2016F, No. 200,§ 6, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 10; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-424; Acts 1987, No. 354, § 7; 1989, No. 763, § 2; 1997, No. 208, § 14; 1999, No. 1553, § 10.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-307 - Issuance and recording of licenses

(a)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall issue licenses to all applicants who have been approved, paid all the required fees, and possess a valid certificate issued by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
(b)
(1)
Each person receiving a license from the board, before practicing chiropractic, shall have the certificate recorded in the office of the county clerk of the county where he or she proposes to practice.
(2)
When the licensee moves to another county for the purpose of continuing the practice of chiropractic, he or she shall file for record, with the county clerk of the county to which he or she moves, a certified copy of his or her license.
(3)
The fee for each recording of each license shall be two dollars ($2.00).
(4)
Each licensee shall display conspicuously in his or her principal place of business or place of employment the license issued by the board. The annual renewal certificate shall be displayed in connection with the original license.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 397,§ 6, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 10; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-424; Acts 1987, No. 354, § 7; 1999, No. 1553, § 11.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-308 - Temporary licenses

Upon satisfactory evidence being submitted to the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners as to an applicant's ability and integrity and when no regular review of applications will be held within thirty (30) days from the date of an application for a temporary license, the board may issue to the applicant a permit to practice until the next orientation of accepted applicants if approved by at least two-thirds (2/3) of the membership of the board.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 397,§ 7, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 12; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-426; Acts 1989 (3rd Ex. Sess.), No. 30, § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-310 - Orientation class

(a)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners is authorized to conduct an orientation class for all new licensees.
(b)
The board is authorized to include in the orientation class instruction relating to office procedures, the filing of insurance claims, and such other matters as the board may deem necessary or appropriate to equip new licensees to establish and maintain a practice and to effectively and efficiently operate and manage their offices and other facilities related to their practice of chiropractic practice.
Acts 1983, No. 504, § 3; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-442; Acts 1999, No. 1553, § 12.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-311 - Renewal - Fee

(a)
(1)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners may charge an annual renewal fee not to exceed three hundred dollars ($300) for the license. However, in its discretion, the board may set the renewal fee for license holders not practicing in this state, or for those inactive, at a lower fee than for those practicing in this state.
(2)
The board may waive the renewal fee for all licentiates who are serving in the armed services at the time the fee is due.
(b)
If the license renewal fee is not paid by January 1 of each year or within sixty (60) days from the mailing of notice by the board, whichever is the later date, the license shall automatically expire and be forfeited. The license can only be reinstated upon payment of all sums due, and, in its discretion, the board may assess the delinquent holder an additional sum as a penalty.
(c)
A renewal fee will be considered "paid" pursuant to this section if it is received in the board office or postmarked on or before the date the fee is due. If a license expires and is forfeited because the renewal fee is not paid on time, the license may be reinstated upon payment of the delinquent fee due, payment of a penalty of two hundred dollars ($200), and complying with the continuing education requirements of §
17-81-312
.
(d)
Failure of the licensee to receive the renewal form shall not relieve him or her of the duty to renew his or her license and pay the fee required by this chapter.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 11; 1983, No. 504, § 2; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-425; Acts 1987, No. 354, § 8; 1989 (3rd Ex. Sess.), No. 30, § 1; 1999, No. 1553, § 13.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-312 - Renewal - Education requirement

(a)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall not renew the license of any person actively engaged in practice within the State of Arkansas unless the person presents to the board evidence of attendance during the preceding twelve (12) months at:
(1)
An approved educational session or sessions of not less than twenty-four (24) hours' duration conducted by an approved chiropractic institution of learning or by some association approved by the board for the teaching of chiropractic philosophy and scientific courses pertaining to the profession; or
(2)
An educational course conducted by the board.
(b)
(1)
The board may waive the requirement upon being presented a certificate from the doctor in charge that the license holder was physically unable on account of sickness or injury, or upon a showing that the license holder was in military service, when the course was conducted within this state during the preceding twelve (12) months.
(2)
The board may waive the requirement for any other valid reason.
(3)
Any person who is initially licensed in January shall be required to complete twenty-four (24) hours of continuing education by December 31 of that year, and each year thereafter comply with subdivision (a)(1) of this section.
(4)
Any person who is initially licensed in July shall submit a certificate of attendance of a minimum of twelve (12) hours of continuing education program approval by the board. Each year thereafter the doctor shall submit a certificate of attendance of completion of twenty-four (24) hours of continuing education seminars by December 31 of each year.
(c)
The presentation of a fraudulent or forged evidence of attendance at an educational session shall be a cause for suspension or revocation of the holder's license.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 11; 1981, No. 51, § 4; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-425; Acts 1993, No. 392, § 6; 1995, No. 618, § 1; 1999, No. 1553, § 14.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-313 - Disciplinary proceedings - Revocation or suspension

(a)
The Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners shall have sole authority over licensed chiropractors to levy a civil penalty of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) nor less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each violation, to deny, place under probation, suspend, or revoke any license to practice chiropractic issued by the board or applied for in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, or otherwise to discipline a licensee upon proof that the person:
(1)
Is guilty of fraud or deceit in procuring or attempting to procure a license to practice chiropractic;
(2)
Is guilty of crime or gross immorality;
(3)
Is unfit or incompetent by reason of negligence, habits, or other causes;
(4)
Is habitually intemperate or is addicted to the use of habit-forming drugs;
(5)
Is mentally incompetent;
(6)
Is guilty of unprofessional conduct;
(7)
Is guilty of fraud or deceit in filing insurance forms, documents, or information pertaining to the health or welfare of a patient; or
(8)
Has willfully or repeatedly violated any of the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
Proceedings under this section shall comply with the Arkansas Administrative Procedure Act, §
25-15-201
et seq.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 27; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-441; Acts 1987, No. 354, § 10; 1993, No. 392, § 7; 1999, No. 1553, § 15.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-314 - Reinstatement

(a)
A chiropractic license which has been revoked for repeated violation of any of the causes enumerated in §
17-81-313
shall not be eligible for reinstatement.
(b)
(1)
A license which has been suspended may be reinstated upon expiration of the period of suspension and upon satisfactory assurance of proper conduct, by notarized statement of intent, by the suspended licensee.
(2)
The statement of intent shall be filed with the Secretary of the Arkansas State Board of Chiropractic Examiners at least thirty (30) days before the expiration of the period of suspension, accompanied by a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) if the period of suspension is less than a year, and additionally by the regular yearly renewal fee if the period of suspension exceeds twelve (12) months.
(3)
All fees shall be paid by certified check or postal money order.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 27; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-441.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 17 - PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, AND BUSINESSES (§§ 17-1-101 — 17-107-311) › Subtitle 3 - MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (§§ 17-80-101 — 17-107-311) › Chapter 81 - CHIROPRACTORS (§§ 17-81-101 — 17-81-318) › Subchapter 3 - LICENSING (§§ 17-81-301 — 17-81-318) › Section 17-81-315 - Professional titles

(a)
Each holder of a license under the provisions of this chapter shall be privileged to use after his or her name:
(1)
Any of the following terms: "Doctor of Chiropractic"; "Chiropractic Physician"; "Chiropractor"; and "D.C."; and
(2)
The use of titles from any special certification issued through courses or seminars of instruction for professional learning by colleges conducting or sponsoring such courses or seminars holding status with the Council on Chiropractic Education or those titles issued in like manner, not excluding honorary titles, by instruction and sponsored by the International Chiropractors Association or the American Chiropractic Association.
(b)
Nothing in this section shall exclude the use of titles issued by colleges or universities accredited by the United States Department of Education granting degrees such as B.S., M.S., M.A., Ph.D., or other similar degrees.
Acts 1971, No. 706, § 16; A.S.A. 1947, § 72-430; Acts 1999, No. 1553, § 16.