Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine May 2021

News Magazine May 2021

FEATURE STORY

Governor Signs Act 978 Continuing Education

After 14 years of determination, the Arkansas HVACR Association finally achieved a victory in the journey toward Continuing Education. On

pass” recommendation from the House State Agencies and Government Affairs Committee. Due to some concerns, it

was amended and returned to the House Floor on April 7. It failed on the floor with only 45 Yeas. It needed 51. As though by

May 5, 2021 Governor Asa Hutchinson signed HB1712 making it Act 978.

HB1712 was sponsored

miracle, Representative Lynch enlisted help. The House moved to reconsider and passed it on April 12 th sending it to the Senate. Senator Jane English sponsored the bill in the Senate. Senator English

in

the

House

by

Representative Roger Lynch, District 14, from Lonoke. Representative Lynch carried similar legislation in 2017 and 2019 but failed both times in the House Committee

Representative Roger Lynch

Senator Jane English

due to those that believe in the virtual elimination of most licensing and regulation. As a HVAC contractor he understood the health and safety issues and the need for contractors to stay current with code and technology. It was his personal experience that kept him committed to the legislation for four years in three sessions. Even in this 93 rd session, Representative Lynch faced challenges. On March 17 th it got a “do

is the “Queen of Technical and the Trades” in the legislature. She has done as much or more to promote jobs and training for the trades than anyone in our State. An amazing Senator whose respect, dignity, and commitment carried the day. Though she got some push back, she remained committed and continued forward. It was her personal influence behind the scenes that passed the bill.