Earlier this month the state Crime Lab opened a new facility in Lowell, in northwest Arkansas.
Senate News
State Education Department Releases School Report Cards
The annual report cards for Arkansas public schools has been released by the state Education Department, and they show improvement over last year.
Corrections Board Explores Contract for Privately Operated Prisons
The state Board of Correction has voted to pursue an agreement with Bradley and Drew Counties in southeast Arkansas to set up a private prison.
Arkansas Tourism Continues to Grow
Tourism 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.
Public Health Committee Focuses on Marketing of E-Cigarettes to Youth
The 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.
Fourth Unit Opens For People Undergoing Mental Health Crises
In 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.
Senator Hendren Releases Draft of Vaping Bill
Vaping would be restricted just as smoking cigarettes is restricted, it would be taxed like tobacco products and its marketing to minors would be prohibited under legislation drafted by Senator Jim Hendren of Gravette, the President Pro Tempore of the Arkansas Senate.
UAMS Receives Grant to Expand Access to Healthcare in Rural Areas
The 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.
State Senate Wins 2019 Efficiency Award, one of Digital Government Transformation Awards Presented by Information Network of Arkansas
The Arkansas state Senate won the 2019 Efficiency Award, one of the Digital Government Transformation Awards presented by the Information Network of Arkansas and state leaders who are working to make government more transparent.
Legislators Working to Control Growth in Medicaid Spending
Almost 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.