Download DOC LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas won a long and hard-fought legal battle against large pharmaceutical manufacturers when the United States Supreme Court let stand a lower court ruling in the state’s favor. The decision means that Act 1103 of 2021 is constitutional and remains in effect. “This is a big win for Arkansas’s drug […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The state Department of Correction has been in the news recently because of its efforts to build additional prison space, in order to improve public safety. Much less public attention has been paid to the Department’s agency that supervises parolees and people on probation, even though Arkansas has many more […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The state Senate held its traditional organizational meeting to name its leaders and choose committee assignments. Senator Bart Hester of Cave Springs (Benton County) had previously been elected President Pro Tempore of the Senate for the 95th General Assembly. On January 13, the first day of the 2025 legislative session, […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The governor proposed a balanced budget for legislators to consider during the 2025 session when they set spending levels for state government agencies. Arkansas operates under a balanced budget, but the governor’s proposal is important because it outlines her spending priorities for Fiscal Year 2026. We are now in the […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The governor unveiled a new pay plan for state employees that she will present for legislative approval during the 2025 regular session. At the announcement of the pay plan, she said it was the fulfillment of a promise she made when campaigning for office. Bringing salaries more in line with […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas legislators have been hearing from constituents about the rising costs of homeowners insurance premiums, so during the 2025 session they will explore numerous options for holding down rate increases. At a recent meeting of the Senate and House Committees on Insurance and Commerce, top officials of the Arkansas Insurance […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Direct care nurses who work at long-term facilities operated by the state are eligible for a bonus of $5,000. … Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas tourism industry continues to flourish and is soon to surpass $10 billion in economic impact, acc… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – During budget hearings and continuing through the regular session that begins in January, legislators will tackle the diff… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Legislative budget hearings have begun at the state Capitol, in preparation for the 2025 regular session that begins in Ja… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – A subcommittee of legislators is close to finishing its year-long study of Arkansas gun laws. The study includes a packag… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – When the legislature convenes in regular session in January, lawmakers will consider changing how district courts are fund… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Most of the universities in Arkansas reported increases in enrollment for the fall semester. The state’s funding formula … Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Legislators and state officials continue to work on methods of improving maternal health care in Arkansas. A special comm… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – A legislative committee has signed off on stronger penalties against pharmacy benefit managers that fail to reimburse loca… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The state has begun a new campaign to make people aware of the variety of Medicaid services for which they may be eligible… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The Senate and House Education Committees are close to finalizing next year’s school funding formula. They have worked al… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Department of Transportation estimates that in 2027 and 2028 about $2.2 billion of new projects will be added… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – More than 3,000 families applied for Education Freedom Accounts during the first week of August, bringing the total number… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – As the 2024-2025 school year begins, the state Education Department is making grants available to Arkansas school district… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas sales tax holiday this year will be on the first weekend in August, Saturday and Sunday, August 3 and 4. Con… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The state Department of Finance and Administration has published new income tax withholding tables. That’s good news for … Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – More than 870,000 Arkansas residents receive some type of health care through Medicaid, which is operated by the state Dep… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Agriculture Department has completed a series of public hearings on updates to the statewide water plan, whic… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The state Attorney General has sued two pharmacy benefit managers, alleging that they contributed to the dramatic rise in … Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas families and businesses will save more than $483 million in income taxes next year, thanks to a tax cut passed by… Continue reading
Weekly UpdatesLITTLE ROCK – The Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism publishes a report every year on the health of the state’s tourism industry. According to the most recent statistics available, tourism in Arkansas has never been stronger. Last year more than 48 million people visited Arkansas, an increase of seven million over the previous year. […]
Weekly UpdatesA subcommittee of the Legislative Council recommended almost $5.9 million in funding for the Arkansas Fire Training Academy, the primary training ground for firefighters from across the state.
Weekly UpdatesThe state will continue to accept applications from families who want to fund their children’s tuition with Education Freedom Accounts, and perhaps as early as February the state will begin accepting applications for next school year.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Department of Education has released its annual school report cards, which allow parents to evaluate how well their children are being taught and whether they are learning at grade level. The school report cards provide a wealth of data and create an effective system of accountability for public education.
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The state Transportation Department has written a plan to reduce carbon emissions by improving traffic flow and connecting highways more efficiently with railroad terminals and ports. The department is due to receive $87 million from the federal government, between now and 2026, for projects that reduce carbon emissions. According to […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Children are placed in foster care for many reasons, and the most common ( 52 percent) is neglect by parents. Substance abuse by parents or guardians (48 percent) is the second most common reason, followed by the incarceration of a parent (20 percent), physical abuse (16 percent) and inadequate housing […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – In a four-day special session, the legislature lowered state taxes by almost $250 million this year. Legislators also approved the governor’s proposal to prohibit state and local government officials from requiring proof of Covid vaccinations in order to qualify for services, employment or education. Arkansas had a ban in effect, […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Thanks to a Senate bill that became law earlier this year, thousands of Arkansas students will qualify for free lunches at school. Act 656 of 2023 was approved by an overwhelming majority of senators. It benefits children from families with low incomes by eliminating the requirement that they pay a […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Over the course of the upcoming year legislators will study all the various laws in Arkansas governing firearms, with the intent of simplifying them. The study was prompted by requests from law enforcement and instructors of gun safety. At legislative meetings this summer they have asked for clarification of when […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – Participation in athletics at Arkansas institutions of higher education has increased in recent years, even as total enrollment at colleges and universities has gone down. About 3,900 students participated in athletics at ten universities and seven colleges two years ago, the most recent school year for which statistics are available. […]
Weekly UpdatesDownload DOC LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas legislature enacted a lengthy list of new laws to strengthen the integrity of the elections. Act 620 grants more power to the state Board of Election Commissioners to detect and prevent voter fraud. The board has been conducting an audit after each general election, and Act 620 requires […]
Weekly UpdatesThis year back to school activities in Arkansas have historic importance, thanks to the far-reaching changes in Act 237 of 2023.
Weekly UpdatesMost of the bills that were approved by the legislature earlier this year became law on August 1.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Highway has held four events around the state to commemorate the 31 projects paid for with a half-cent sales tax approved by voters 10 years ago. In 2012 Arkansas voters approved the sales tax increase and since then it has generated about $1.8 billion in revenue, which has paid for improvements to about 200 miles of highway. The projects are collectively called the Connecting Arkansas Program, or CAP, and they represent one of the largest highway programs in the history of the state.
Weekly UpdatesEvery year the sales tax holiday is the first weekend in August. This year it will be Saturday, August 5, and Sunday, August 6.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor announced that the state would provide about $11 million to local school districts to help them pay the steeply rising costs of property insurance premiums.
Weekly UpdatesFiscal Year 2023, which just ended, was one of the best in Arkansas history. The state closed out the fiscal year with a budget surplus of $1.161 billion.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas officials announced that the state is about to receive more than a billion dollars in federal funding for expanding broadband access throughout the state. Before the end of the year, the state Broadband Office will submit a five-year plan with details of how we intend to spend the funds.
Weekly UpdatesIn 2021 the legislature approved Act 626, making Arkansas the first state in the nation to prohibit physicians from performing gender transition procedures on minors. Since then at least 19 other states have enacted similar laws to prohibit procedures such as hormone therapy and surgery for adolescents under 18 who wish to change their genders.
Weekly UpdatesThe secretary of Human Services told lawmakers that the Arkansas Medicaid program would continue to reimburse assisted living facilities at the higher rate they were getting during the Covid-19 pandemic, at least until November. Meanwhile, the Department of Human Services (DHS) continues to review the entire Medicaid system, and will recommend methods of ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Human Services Department has officially petitioned the federal government for authority to make changes in the Medicaid expansion program.
Weekly UpdatesThe Division of Workforce Services will close nine offices around the state as of a restructuring of offices that administer welfare programs.
Weekly UpdatesAs soon as the 2023 legislative session adjourned, the Senate and House Committees on Education began work on school funding in preparation for the 2025 session. Every two years the committees issue an adequacy report that sets a level of state funding of public schools that will comply with the state Constitution and state Supreme Court orders in school funding cases.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Medicaid program is re-examining the cases of hundreds of thousands of recipients to determine whether or not they remain eligible for services. By the end of April 72,802 cases were closed.
Weekly UpdatesThe major provisions of the new Protect Arkansas Act are well known, but they are only a few of the many measures passed during the 2023 regular session.
Weekly UpdatesThe scheduled finish of the 2023 regular session of the legislature is May 1, when lawmakers adjourn sine die. However, during the interim legislators will have plenty of influence over the daily operations of state government. The Legislative Council meets regularly to closely monitor state agency policies.
Weekly UpdatesDuring the 2023 session the legislature enacted a series of bills designed to protect children from exposure to sexually inappropriate literature, live performances and Internet sites.
Weekly UpdatesDuring the 2023 regular session the Arkansas legislature not only continued to lower state income taxes, but also reduced homeowners’ property taxes. Act 315 lowers property taxes by increasing the homestead property tax credit from $375 to $425 a year. It is effective beginning with assessment year 2023
Weekly UpdatesThe Legislature easily passed legislation to save Arkansas families about $100 million a year in lower income taxes. The bill also lowers corporate income taxes and will save Arkansas businesses about $24 million a year.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate has approved legislation that lengthens prison sentences for violent offenders and requires prison inmates to work harder to qualify for parole.
Weekly UpdatesIn every regular session the legislature can refer up to three proposed constitutional amendments to voters. The measures referred during the 2023 session will be on Arkansas general election ballots of November, 2024. If a majority of voters approve, the amendments will become part of the state Constitution.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has advanced a long list of bills to prevent voter fraud and protect the integrity of elections.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor’s historic reform of Arkansas education is now law. Dozens of other important measures were advanced out of committee and approved by the Senate and House of Representatives. Both chambers approved HB 1419 to change the rules for citizens’ groups trying to place an issue on statewide ballots. Currently, supporters of an initiative or proposed amendment must submit signatures from at least 15 counties. HB 1419 would require a minimum number of signatures from 50 counties. Arkansas has 75 counties.
Weekly UpdatesState government and a host of private organizations announced a new effort to recruit more foster families, streamline the process of placing foster children with relatives and accelerating the process for the permanent adoption of children.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate has approved legislation that makes the single largest investment in public education in Arkansas history. Senate Bill 294, the governor’s education package, has 144 pages and 25 Senate co-sponsors.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas is changing the eligibility requirements for people who are enrolled in ARHOME, a category of Medicaid the program. Beginning next year they will have to work, volunteer in their community or continue their education in order to continue receiving benefits.
Weekly UpdatesBacked by a host of legislators, the governor revealed details of her education package. The proposed changes in public school funding would be numerous and far reaching. They include large increases in teacher pay and the expansion of literacy programs for young children.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate passed legislation to repeal language in state law allowing medical facilities to be licensed in order to perform abortions.
Weekly UpdatesThe first three weeks of the 2023 legislative have session have been remarkable for the wide variety of issues the Senate has addressed.
Weekly UpdatesThere are many stages in the process of convicting criminals and sentencing them to prison. Senate Bill 2, the “Truth in Sentencing and Parole Reform Act of 2023,” will change many of them.
Weekly UpdatesThe 2023 legislative session got off to a smooth start. The full Senate confirmed the governor’s secretarial nominations, and Senate committees got their initial organizational meetings out of the way.
Weekly UpdatesSchool choice, prison expansion and tax cuts are expected to be the highlights of the 2023 regular legislative session that convenes on Monday, January 9.
Weekly UpdatesWhen the 2023 regular session convenes on January 9, there will be 13 new members in the Arkansas Senate.
Weekly UpdatesLegislators finished the calendar year with a final round of recommendations for spending federal relief funds and reserve funds. The recommendations include using another $93.8 million for broadband projects and $20 million to upgrade computerized case management for the state court system. Also, $6.25 million was recommended to help cover the expenses of opening the new Sevier County Medical Center.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Natural Resources Commission has awarded $270 million in grants for 157 drinking water and wastewater projects in 58 counties. Work will begin in 2023 on the projects and they must be completed before the end of 2026.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas has been developing a statewide response to the growing health crisis created by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. During the 2023 session the legislature will consider a series of proposals brought by the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Advisory Council, which was created by Act 319 of 2021.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas lawmakers have begun pre-filing bills in advance of the 2023 legislative session, which begins on January 9.
Weekly UpdatesA record prize in the Powerball lottery generated increased ticket sales in Arkansas in October. Increased sales of lottery tickets generated an additional $2.1 million for college scholarships, compared to the same month last year.
Weekly UpdatesFunds are now available from the settlement of a massive lawsuit against opioid distributors, and will be awarded to projects that have demonstrated effectiveness in combating the abuse of painkillers.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas received good news from federal regulators that allows the state Medicaid program to better help women during at-risk pregnancies and other at-risk populations. Last year Medicaid provided medical services to 12,500 Arkansas women with high-risk pregnancies. The availability of more benefits will extend also to veterans aged 19 through 30, and to people in rural areas who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness or a substance abuse disorder.
Weekly UpdatesA panel of three federal judges dismissed portions of a lawsuit filed against state officials, in which plaintiffs argue that the legislature violated the federal Voting Rights Act last year when it drew new maps for the state’s four Congressional districts.
Weekly UpdatesLegislators have begun budget hearings in preparation for the 2023 regular session. Members of the Joint Budget Committee and the Legislative Council will review in detail all spending requests by state agencies.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Division of Children and Family Services continues to struggle with high staff turnover and high caseloads for family service workers. The two problems are closely related.
Weekly UpdatesWhen Arkansas voters go to the polls on November 8 they will determine the fate of four proposed amendments to the state Constitution.
Weekly UpdatesIn the fiscal session earlier this year the legislature appropriated a million dollars for pregnancy resource centers. The state has awarded grants totaling about $455,000 to 14 centers. Because $545,000 has still not been awarded, the Department of Finance and Administration will open a second round of applications in October.
Weekly UpdatesOver the next three years about 3,200 Arkansans with disabilities will be able to get Medicaid services at home or in their community, rather than in an institution. The Legislative Council approved the expansion of eligibility, submitted by the state Division of Developmental Disabilities Services.
Weekly UpdatesSince the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic Arkansas has received billions of dollars in federal relief funding. The PEER subcommittee of the Legislative Council has grown significantly in importance because it reviews how state agencies, institutions of higher education and public schools proposed to spend those federal relief dollars.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate and House Committees on Education are scheduled to vote on next year’s adequacy report at their meeting in early October.
Weekly UpdatesAt first glance, arts and technology would appear to be opposites in how they are taught and how they affect economic development. However, a bipartisan group of legislators has been working since 2018 to build the case that there is a crucial intersection where the arts and technology meet.
Weekly UpdatesIn July seven parolees were arrested and 18 weapons were seized. Their sentences will reflect the stronger penalties imposed by Act 946 of 2021, which enhances penalties for repeat offenders who use a firearm to commit felonies. The act prohibits them from being released on parole.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas has begun the process of expanding Medicaid services so that more pregnant women can qualify for the government health care program.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature concluded a quick, three-day special session after approving income tax cuts that will save 1.6 million Arkansas taxpayers about $500 million.
Weekly UpdatesWhen it meets in special session the legislature will consider a $50 million grant program for school safety measures.
Weekly UpdatesThe joint Senate and House Committees on City, County and Local Affairs met to explore methods of funding of much-needed improvements to water and sewer systems across Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesEvery year the sales tax holiday is the first weekend in August. This year it will be Saturday, August 6, and Sunday, August 7.
Weekly UpdatesTwo interest groups submitted petitions to the Secretary of State seeking to have two proposed constitutional amendments placed on the November general election ballot.
One would legalize marijuana and the other would remove Pope County as a possible site for a gambling casino.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor announced that he would call the legislature into special session on August 8 to consider income tax cuts that would save Arkansas families and businesses almost $700 million when they take effect.
Weekly UpdatesWhen the legislature convenes in regular session at noon on Monday, January 11, the individuals in the Senate will bring a wide variety of real-world experience to the task.
Weekly UpdatesWhen people call the state hotline to report suspected child abuse or neglect, about 80 percent are assigned to the Division of Children and Family Services. The other 20 percent are considered more serious, and are assigned to the State Police, which has a Division of Crimes Against Children. The Division has 428 family services workers. Their average caseload in March was 23.3, which is down from 25.5 last October. The state’s goal is to bring it below 20.
Weekly UpdatesStatement of Senator Jason Rapert regarding Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas School Safety Commission has been set up again to update measures to protect students while they are in school. The governor issued an executive order to reinstate the commission in the wake of the mass murder of 19 children and two adults at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Forestry Division is known for managing woodlands, helping control fires and supporting rural fire departments. Not so well known is its work in cities and towns. In mid-May, the division hosted forestry professionals from across the Southeast for a training event designed to improve the skills of Urban Strike Force Teams.
Weekly UpdatesThe economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic was especially hard for child care centers, so the Arkansas Department of Human Services is administering about $286 million to help them cover expenses and remain in business. So far, about $110 million of the relief funding has been sent to child care providers, according to the department’s Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Senate Democratic Caucus is calling for the state to take stronger actions to protect all Arkansans from Covid-19, save lives, and limit the economic fallout due to the pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas is making a massive public investment to bring broadband access to every corner of the state. Last year the state hired a consultant firm, Broadband Development Group (BDG), to develop a master plan. The firm’s chief technical officer made a lengthy presentation to the legislative Joint Performance Review Committee.
Weekly UpdatesLast year the legislature enacted a series of new election laws, and four of them were challenged in court by plaintiffs who argued that they restricted voting rights.
Weekly UpdatesThe level of state government spending determines how much of a surplus is left at the end of the fiscal year. One of the legislature’s most important decisions is how much of a surplus to accumulate, and what to do with it.
Weekly UpdatesA six-month survey of Internet access in Arkansas has been completed, and state officials now have a more accurate roadmap of which regions need more investment in broadband technologies.
Weekly UpdatesAt their first meeting scheduled after Easter, lawmakers heard an update on new rules and new funding that will eliminate a waiting list for services for people with developmental disabilities.
Weekly UpdatesThe recidivism rate for Arkansas prison inmates is 46.1 percent, a rate which the head of state prisons called unacceptable.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas tourism industry is recovering from the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Based on collections of the state two percent tourism tax, the industry now exceeds pre-pandemic levels of economic activity. However, other gauges of tourism indicate that fewer people are working at Arkansas hotels than in 2019.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Education Department has partnered with a non-profit organization called Forward Arkansas to address a growing teacher shortage in Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature completed the 2022 fiscal session in 23 days, approving a budget for state government that calls for spending about $6 billion in general revenue next year.
Weekly UpdatesCertified law enforcement officers will get a $5,000 salary stipend this year, thanks to a Senate bill approved by the Arkansas legislature.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature approved a package of bills that allow greater oversight of two major health insurance plans that cover public school teachers and state employees.
Weekly UpdatesLast week it was reported that another former detention center, at Lewisville, will be converted into a substance abuse treatment facility for teenagers. Judges who hear juvenile cases said that a treatment center was needed, and were glad to have an option besides locking up troubled youths.
Weekly UpdatesFor decades prison overcrowding has sparked a financial tug-of-war between the state and Arkansas counties.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas motorists who wish to contact the State Police for non-emergency reasons can now call *ASP on their cell phones. Dialing *ASP is the same as dialing *277.
Weekly UpdatesLast year Arkansas joined a rental assistance program to help people who have lost jobs or businesses from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
So far the state Department of Human Services (DHS) made 31,373 payments, totalling $64.6 million. The money helps people with rent and utility bills, so they do not have to move out of their home or have their lights turned off.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Division of Children and Family Services intends to try out a new method of intervention, by assigning cases to a team of workers instead of to an individual.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has begun budget hearings in preparation for the 2022 fiscal session, which begins on February 14. Legislators will consider the governor’s proposed balanced budget of about $6 billion for Fiscal Year 2023, which officially begins on July 1.
Weekly UpdatesThis year marks the 20th anniversary of the Arkansas Supreme Court’s landmark decision in the Lake View school funding case.
Weekly UpdatesWhen the new year begins, the Arkansas Works program will have a new name and will operate under new rules.
ARHOME is the new Medicaid program.
Weekly UpdatesIn large part because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the state Human Services Department has a backlog of applications for Medicaid.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature completed a three-day special session in which it passed reductions in state income taxes that will save Arkansas families and businesses almost $500 million a year when they take effect.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor presented a balanced budget proposal to the legislature for next fiscal year. It would authorize about $5.8 billion next year in spending from the state’s general revenue fund, about three percent more than this year.
Weekly UpdatesState agencies have experienced the same problems as many companies with difficulty hiring entry-level employees. Several agencies have contacted the state Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to report a difficulties attracting applicants for available positions. OPM put together a proposal that allows for higher entry-level salaries for all state agencies and presented it to legislators in June.
Weekly UpdatesIn the past couple of years Arkansas has made a massive financial commitment to expanding broadband access to all parts of state.
So far $275 million has been approved, and the Legislative Council is set to increase that investment to $400 million when it considers an additional $125 million in broadband proposals at its November meeting.
Weekly UpdatesThe state is helping people who have trouble paying their rent because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesIn a settlement of a major lawsuit, pharmaceutical manufacturers who make and market opioids will pay $216 million to Arkansas cities, counties and state government.
Weekly UpdatesBusiness activity was severely affected by the pandemic last year across most areas of the economic spectrum, from the largest corporations to small businesses and individual wage earners. In spite of the challenges created by the pandemic, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission signed incentive agreements for 48 projects that will create or preserve 2,917 jobs in the state. The average wage of those jobs is $22.10 an hour.
Weekly UpdatesState government will collect more in tax revenue this year than previously estimated, according to a revised forecast by the Department of Finance and Administration.
Weekly UpdatesThe market for workers’ compensation insurance remains competitive in Arkansas, thanks to efforts by the legislature to hold down rates.
Weekly UpdatesIn an extension of this year’s regular session the legislature drew new boundaries for the four Congressional districts in Arkansas, and approved exemptions for workers at companies that require staff to be vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature reconvened to draw new boundaries for the four Congressional districts in Arkansas, and to consider responses to federal vaccination mandates.
Weekly UpdatesAt the beginning of this year, there were more than 2,000 licensed child care programs in Arkansas. They had slots for 194,000 children.
By mid-April, about half the facilities had closed. Although most have been able to re-open, as of early October at least 20 had closed permanently
Weekly UpdatesEnrollment has dropped at many state-supported colleges and universities because of disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature is preparing to convene again on September 29, to redraw boundaries of the four Congressional districts in Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas legislators continue to support a statewide expansion of broadband service as quickly as possible, especially in areas where there is no Internet at all and in places where the technology is obsolete.
Weekly UpdatesA federal appeals court has ruled in favor of the state Education Department, and against four south Arkansas school districts that want to be exempt from the state school choice law.
Weekly UpdatesThe number of people who live in Arkansas increased by about 95,600 over the past 10 years, a growth rate of 3.3 percent that brought the state’s population to more than three million people.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Legislative Council approved a funding request of more than $245 million to help hospitals and nursing homes recruit and retain staff, and to cope with extraordinary expenses caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The money comes from a massive federal act known as the American Rescue Plan.
Weekly UpdatesLegislators gathered at the Capitol in Little Rock to affirm the governor’s declaration of a public health emergency for 60 days.
Weekly UpdatesAct 651 of 2021 mandates that when a physician prescribes opioids, the physician must also prescribe naloxone, a drug that can quickly reverse the effects of an overdose.
Weekly UpdatesThis year computer and electronic equipment will be included in the Arkansas sales tax holiday. Every year the sales tax holiday is the first weekend in August. This year it will be Saturday, August 7, and Sunday, August 8.
Weekly UpdatesIn the regular session of 2021 the legislature approved at least 25 new election laws that will go into effect on July 28. Some of the new laws will affect poll workers, county election commissioners and county clerks’ office. Others will affect voters the next time they cast a ballot.
Weekly UpdatesA bipartisan group of 14 senators have requested that the CARES Act Steering Committee allocate $20 million in federal relief funding for senior citizens centers across Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Board of Education has approved another round of plans submitted by Arkansas school districts that want the option of offering online classes in the fall.
At a special meeting, the Board approved 60 applications from school districts and charter schools.
Weekly UpdatesAs the Arkansas tourism industry recovers from the economic impacts of the pandemic, the governor announced the creation of a new Office of Outdoor Recreation. It will be in the state Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, and over the summer the department will hire a director for the office to coordinate and promote stewardship of the outdoors in Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesThe Legislative Council approved spending $48.5 million in federal relief money to fund a grant program that will help tourism-related businesses adversely affected by the pandemic. The grants will be available to small businesses that hire up to 250 full-time employees.
Weekly UpdatesThe state will commit $17 million to extending a runway at the Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith. The Air Force announced it would locate a new training center for pilots who fly F-35 Lightning II and F-16 Fighting Falcon jets.
Weekly UpdatesThe state is on pace to have a record surplus of more than $1 billion, which is a strong indicator that the Arkansas economy is recovering from the negative effects of the pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesState and local governments are preparing to receive a large infusion of federal aid, under the American Rescue Plan of 2021. Schools and universities in Arkansas also are receiving federal funds. The amount of federal funding is unprecedented. State government will get $1.57 billion. The 75 counties in Arkansas will get $586 million. Arkansas cities will get about $425 million. Each city’s allocation will depend on its population. Arkansas schools are set to receive $1.25 billion. Universities and colleges will receive $363 million.
Weekly UpdatesThe state is now offering help to low-income families who have fallen behind on their rent because of financial problems caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas legislature enacted several new pro-life laws during the 2021 regular session.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature referred three proposed constitutional amendments to Arkansas voters. In next year’s statewide general election in November, voters will decide whether or not the three amendments are written into the state Constitution.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature brought the 2021 regular session to a close with a dramatic midnight meeting to approve a Sovereignty Act, which declares new federal laws invalid if they infringe on the right to bear arms.
Weekly UpdatesLawmakers completed work on tax cuts and prioritized spending by state agencies.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has enacted numerous reforms to Arkansas election laws. The Senate Committee on State Agencies and Governmental Affairs reviews all proposed legislation that address elections. So far this session, the committee has received 49 bills specifically affecting polling places, absentee ballots, voter fraud and the handling of elections.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas became the first state in the nation to prohibit physicians from performing gender transition procedures on minors, either through surgery or hormone therapy.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has approved a broad reform of the laws governing water providers, a measure that sponsors have been working on for the past four years.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature voted to extend the 2021 session until April 30, and then to recess for an extended period rather than to adjourn.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate has approved legislation to grant to certified nurse practitioners full and independent practice authority. The nurses would need about three years, or 6,240 hours, of practice under a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to earn the right to practice independently.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate passed a new version of the Medicaid expansion program, which is one of the most important bills of this year’s session because of the number of people it benefits and the amount of money that it generates in Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesBoth chambers of the legislature have approved a bill that prohibits abortions, except if necessary to save the mother’s life in a medical emergency.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has approved a broad tax relief measure for businesses that were affected by the pandemic.
House Bill 1361 exempts income that people and businesses received through numerous disaster relief programs, such as the popular Paycheck Protection Program.
Weekly UpdatesBusinesses would not be penalized by state regulators for violating Covid-19 restrictions because of the behavior of their customers, under legislation passed by the Arkansas Senate.
Weekly Updateshe deadline for legislators to file proposed constitutional amendments has passed, and the Senate and House Committees on State Agencies and Governmental Affairs will begin narrowing the list that will be placed on the next general election ballot.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate has voted to exempt last year’s unemployment benefits from state income taxes, to help people who lost their jobs because of the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has begun budget hearings, in preparation for the regular session that begins in January.
Weekly UpdatesA Senate committee advanced legislation that protects the rights of people with disabilities who need an organ transplant. Senate Bill 155 also is known as Lila’s Law, after a girl with Down syndrome who in 2018 was denied a potential heart transplant.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate passed legislation known as the “Stand Your Ground” bill, which would allow someone to use deadly force to defend themselves against an aggressor.
Weekly UpdatesThe 93rd General Assembly convened with a traditional day of swearing in ceremonies for new members, followed by the governor’s speech in a joint session of the legislature. Then lawmakers immediately got down to business.
Weekly UpdatesWhen the Arkansas legislature convenes the 2021 regular session, the first major challenge on the agenda will be ensuring that the public can still safely participate in the democratic process.
Weekly UpdatesWhen the legislature convenes in regular session at noon on Monday, January 11, the individuals in the Senate will bring a wide variety of real-world experience to the task.
Weekly UpdatesStatement by Senator Jason Rapert regarding ruling by Judge Kristine Baker,
Weekly UpdatesThe level of state government spending determines how much of a surplus is left at the end of the fiscal year. One of the legislature’s most important decisions is how much of a surplus to accumulate, and what to do with it.
Weekly UpdatesLast week it was reported that another former detention center, at Lewisville, will be converted into a substance abuse treatment facility for teenagers. Judges who hear juvenile cases said that a treatment center was needed, and were glad to have an option besides locking up troubled youths.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor presented a balanced budget proposal to the legislature for next fiscal year. It would authorize about $5.8 billion next year in spending from the state’s general revenue fund, about three percent more than this year.
Weekly UpdatesThe state is helping people who have trouble paying their rent because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesAt the beginning of this year, there were more than 2,000 licensed child care programs in Arkansas. They had slots for 194,000 children.
By mid-April, about half the facilities had closed. Although most have been able to re-open, as of early October at least 20 had closed permanently
Weekly UpdatesThe Legislative Council approved spending $48.5 million in federal relief money to fund a grant program that will help tourism-related businesses adversely affected by the pandemic. The grants will be available to small businesses that hire up to 250 full-time employees.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has begun budget hearings, in preparation for the regular session that begins in January.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas teachers and students are beginning the most challenging school year in living memory.
Weekly UpdatesThe Transportation Department is upgrading its web site to make it easier for Arkansas drivers to follow the progress of highway construction projects.
Weekly UpdatesIn this year’s election, Arkansas voters will determine the outcome of three proposed amendments to the state Constitution.
Weekly UpdatesMore than 28,000 Arkansas residents work in the forest products industry, cutting trees, producing paper and pulp, manufacturing furniture and shipping wood products across the world.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Education Department will spend $10 million to expand Internet access in every school district in Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesThe average debt that a student incurs to earn a bachelor’s degree in Arkansas is almost $2,000 less than the national average. Over the course of a 30-year career, a person with a bachelor’s degree will earn an estimated $1.25 million, compared to $550,000 that a college dropout will earn over the same period.
Weekly UpdatesSenator Jason Rapert is in the hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia and testing positive for Covid-19, he is responding well to treatment. “This is a difficult time for my family, but we know that God is with us always,” Rapert said. “We’re sincerely grateful for the many prayers of love and support that have […]
Weekly UpdatesArkansas will hold its annual sales tax holiday on Saturday, August 1, and Sunday, August 2.
Weekly UpdatesThe number of Arkansas children in foster care continued to go down last year, after reaching an all-time high in 2016 and prompting dramatic measures from elected officials to improve the state’s child welfare system.
Weekly UpdatesDuring the upcoming school year, local districts will have flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances created by the outbreak of the coronavirus, thanks to a set of waivers adopted by the state Board of Education during a special meeting.
Weekly UpdatesThe state will hire 350 more contact tracers to help control the spread of the coronavirus. After the funding is allocated to pay them, it will bring the state’s total to 900.
Weekly UpdatesAs Arkansas began Phase Two of its gradual reopening of businesses and social activities, the governor issued three executive orders related to the coronavirus outbreak.
Weekly UpdatesA federal judge upheld the constitutionality of lethal injection procedures used in Arkansas for carrying out the death penalty.
Weekly UpdatesState revenues have gone down because of the economic consequences of the coronavirus outbreak, but not as much as Arkansas budget officials had feared.
Weekly UpdatesMore than 10,500 Arkansas businesses have been approved for grants to reimburse them for the expenses of protecting the health of employees and customers.
The grants are worth up to $100,000, and the total amount of approved grants is about $115 million. They were made available through the Ready for Business Program.
Weekly UpdatesMay 22, 2020
LITTLE ROCK – In June the Senate Education Committee will hear a report on the effect that public schools have seen due to the recent widespread requests for waivers from education standards.
Weekly UpdatesDisruptions in the food supply chain have forced Arkansas cattlemen and farmers to make financial decisions today that will affect the supply and demand of food over the coming months and years.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas is gradually opening up businesses and public activities, under careful monitoring by public health officials to avoid bringing on a second wave of the coronavirus. The governor announced that church services may resume, as long as the congregation wears masks and everyone stays at least six feet from each other.
Weekly UpdatesThe next few weeks will determine whether Arkansas moves forward or backward on the way to re-opening businesses.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Ready for Business Grant Program has been established by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and is designed to assist businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Weekly UpdatesSenator Bob Ballinger of Berryville and 14 other state senators on Friday commended the governor and public health officials, and assured them that Arkansas citizens would take the precautions necessary for opening businesses again.
Weekly UpdatesWhen Arkansas makes it past the peak of the coronavirus outbreak, restrictions on businesses and social interactions will be loosened carefully, always with the goal in mind to prevent a second wave of the pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature completed the 2020 fiscal session in record time, approving a balanced budget that funds state government spending of $5.68 billion.
Weekly UpdatesSenator Jimmy Hickey, Jr. was elected President Pro Tempore of the Arkansas Senate for the 93rd General Assembly in 2021 and 2022.
Weekly UpdatesThe sudden and severe economic downturn caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus means that the 2020 fiscal session will be the most difficult one for legislators since Arkansas voters first voted to establish fiscal sessions 12 years ago.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature convened in special session to address potential revenue shortfalls, resulting from the sudden economic downturn caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus.
Weekly UpdatesTo cushion the financial impact of the coronavirus outbreak on working families, the state has streamlined the process of applying for unemployment insurance.
Weekly UpdatesPay raises have been proposed for direct care employees at the state’s five centers for people with multiple disabilities.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has begun budget hearings in preparation for the 2020 Fiscal Session, which convenes on April 8 and is scheduled to last a month.
Weekly UpdatesAn Arkansas success story that is attracting national attention is the expansion of computer science classes in public schools over the past five years.
Weekly UpdatesLast year the legislature voted to conduct an extensive review of the operations of the Arkansas Department of Transportation, to identify areas where improvements could be made.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor, judges and legislators have all participated in changes to the juvenile justice system, with the goal of reducing the number of young people who are locked up in a secure location.
Weekly UpdatesDuring the first week it was available, about 600 Arkansans took advantage of a new online service to schedule the driving portion of their test to get a driver’s license.
Weekly UpdatesThe Arkansas Levee Task Force has completed its final report, with recommendations on how to pay for maintenance and repairs, and how to best gauge the current condition of levees.
Weekly UpdatesAt a press conference at 10 a.m. Thursday, January 30, in the Old Supreme Court Room of the state Capitol, Senator Cecile Bledsoe of Rogers; Dr. Greg Bledsoe, the state Surgeon General; Kirk Lane, the state drug director; Jerry Cox, president of the Arkansas Family Council, and Larry Page, director of the Arkansas Faith and Ethics Council will urge Arkansas citizens to refuse to sign petitions in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana.
Weekly UpdatesOver the past decade, greater numbers of Arkansas children have been diagnosed with disabilities that require them to receive special education.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas legislators approved using $165 million in federal relief funds to shore up the state unemployment insurance trust fund.
Weekly UpdatesThe Legislative Council endorsed a plan for two southeast Arkansas counties to contract with a private company to build and operate a 600-bed prison.
Weekly UpdatesCanada and Mexico continue to be the top destinations for Arkansas exports, according to the 2019 report by the World Trade Center of the University of Arkansas.
Weekly UpdatesIn 2019 the regular session lawmakers balanced the budget of state government while cutting taxes and reducing the number of state agencies.
Weekly UpdatesThe new year is an election year, and thanks to legislation approved during the regular session earlier this year, the primaries in Arkansas will take place on Tuesday, March 3.
Weekly UpdatesMore than 2,000 people attended a series of meetings that the legislature’s Joint Committee on Public Retirement held in 11 cities across Arkansas earlier this fall.
Estimates are that about half of those in attendance were members of the state Teacher Retirement System.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature created the Arkansas Trauma System 10 years ago, with passage of Act 393 of 2009.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas is one of 16 states whose legislators are working to help families gain access to medical care for a debilitating disorder that can afflict children after a bout of strep throat.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas has made a strong commitment to making sure that children learn to read at an early age, and the federal government has recognized our efforts with a grant of $38 million to improve literacy.
Weekly UpdatesAdequately funding public schools is one of the most complex, time-consuming and important duties of the legislature.
Weekly UpdatesThe Higher Education Coordinating Board heard a disappointing report about the continuing decline in the number of Arkansas high school graduates who go on to college.
Weekly UpdatesThe state’s child welfare agency has improved its performance over the past three years and continues to make progress, according to its most recent annual report.
Weekly UpdatesThe annual report cards for Arkansas public schools has been released by the state Education Department, and they show improvement over last year.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Board of Correction has voted to pursue an agreement with Bradley and Drew Counties in southeast Arkansas to set up a private prison.
Weekly UpdatesTourism in Arkansas grew at a healthy rate last year, whether it’s measured in total spending or how many people visited the state or how many jobs are supported by the travel industry.
Weekly UpdatesThe joint Senate and House Committees on Public Health, Welfare and Labor approved a study proposal to combat the dramatic increase in teenagers’ use of vaping products, also known as e-cigarettes.
Weekly UpdatesIn 2017 the legislature approved the creation of four crisis stabilization units (CSU), where police officers can bring people who are experiencing a severe mental health episode.
Weekly UpdatesThe University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences received a grant of $4.6 million to boost its program to encourage primary care physicians to practice in rural areas.
Weekly UpdatesAlmost three years ago a task force of Arkansas legislators submitted its final report on how to control the growing costs of the state Medicaid program.
Weekly UpdatesLast year 426 Arkansas residents died from a drug overdose, according to death certificates filed with the state Health Department. That is an increase in fatal drug overdoses from 2017, when 417 people in Arkansas died from drugs.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas cities and counties that have been hit hard by the economic impact of the coronavirus can apply for help, after legislators approved the use of $150 million for relief grants.
Weekly UpdatesBack to school in Arkansas means that more than 6,000 buses will transport 350,000 students to and from school.
Weekly UpdatesReading helps children avoid the “summer slide,” when lazy days can make them forget what they’ve learned over the previous year.
Weekly UpdatesA new law requiring stricter labeling of food products has placed Arkansas in the middle of an international dispute over truth in labeling.
Weekly UpdatesMany of the bills approved by lawmakers earlier this year become effective on July 24, which is the 91st day after the legislature adjourned.
Weekly UpdatesThe state Human Services Department is reviewing every case this year in which people have been denied assisted living or home care services in the Living Choices and ARChoices programs.
Weekly UpdatesCensus workers across Arkansas will be knocking on doors until the end of September in a last-ditch effort to make sure that as many people as possible get counted in the 2020 U.S. Census.
Weekly UpdatesState officials announced that school nurses will be provided with kits containing naloxone nasal spray, which helps keep alive people alive when they have overdosed on painkillers known as opioids.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature updated Arkansas school choice laws when it approved Act 754 of 2019 earlier this year.
Weekly UpdatesFlooding has caused more than $100 million in damage to infrastructure in Arkansas, according to the governor’s request for federal relief.
Weekly UpdatesBefore this year, the legislature had already laid the groundwork for expansions of broadband capability in education and health care. In response to the changing needs of schools and businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, legislators have accelerated the pace of projects that expand broadband access in rural Arkansas and in small towns.
Weekly UpdatesElementary school students in Arkansas will get at least 40 minutes a day of recess under legislation approved earlier this year by the General Assembly.
Weekly UpdatesThe rate of maternal mortality in Arkansas is above the national average, so earlier this year the legislature created a review committee to develop new strategies for preventing women from dying during childbirth.
Weekly UpdatesThe goal of the new Arkansas State Broadband Plan, announced by the governor, is to make high-speed Internet access available to all communities of more than 500 people by the year 2022.
Weekly UpdatesCounty clerks are preparing for a sharp increase in the number of absentee ballots that they expect to be turned in for the November 3 general election.
Weekly UpdatesThe Division of Youth Services (DYS) has already begun to make sweeping changes in how the state treats juvenile offenders.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature officially ended the 2019 regular session when it adjourned sine die on April 24.
Weekly UpdatesDuring the recent regular session, the legislature referred three proposed constitutional amendments to Arkansas voters.
Weekly UpdatesThe Correction Department will keep secret any records about lethal injection and carrying out the death penalty, under a bill that exempts those records from the state Freedom of Information Act.
Weekly UpdatesArkansas legislators approved a plan to add $300 a week to unemployment benefits, to extend the extra benefits available during the coronavirus pandemic.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate has already approved several large tax cuts this session, and another one is on its agenda.
Weekly UpdatesThe Senate passed legislation to increase the homestead property tax credit, which will save more than 716,000 Arkansas homeowners about $12.5 million a year.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature has approved and the governor has signed a package of bills sponsored by female lawmakers. The coalition of legislators dubbed their package “Dream BIG for Arkansas.”
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature advanced a major highway program and tougher new ethics laws.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature approved and the governor signed two of the high-profile bills of this year’s session.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor, legislators and private business groups joined to propose a highway program that would add $300 million a year in revenue for the state Transportation Department.
Weekly UpdatesThe legislature advanced a series of tax cuts, including the signature bill of this year’s session, to lower personal income taxes by about $97 million a year.
Weekly UpdatesThe governor and legislators presented the details of the signature issue of this year’s session, a reduction in personal income taxes.
Weekly UpdatesThe 92nd General Assembly got off to a quick start. Among the measures voted on during the opening days of the 2019 legislative were bills of interest to Arkansas cities.
Weekly UpdatesThe 92nd General Assembly began with the traditional combination of ceremonial activities and then immediately getting down to business.
Weekly UpdatesThe regular session of 2019 will be remembered for the number of far-reaching and significant issues that legislators resolved.
Weekly UpdatesLegislators have begun pre-filing bills in anticipation of the regular session that begins January 14. So far, 93 House bills and 40 Senate bills have been introduced.
Weekly UpdatesThe state’s child welfare agency has improved its performance over the past three years and continues to make progress, according to its most recent annual report.
Weekly UpdatesEarlier this month the state Crime Lab opened a new facility in Lowell, in northwest Arkansas.
Weekly Updates