The 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 UpdatesLegislators and other elected officials are gathering gifts for children in state custody, which they will present during a “Christmas in the Capitol” celebration at noon on December 6 in the Old Supreme Court Room of the State Capitol.
News ReleasesIn 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 UpdatesStatement from Senator Missy Irvin, chair of the Senate Education Committee:
“I am so pleased to learn that all the parties have come to an agreement that will allow Mr. Nick Smith, Jr. the eligibility to play basketball during his senior year of high school, and I commend his parents for being strong advocates for their son.”
News ReleasesState 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 Updates