Weekly Updates

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.

Direct care nurses who work at long-term facilities operated by the state are eligible for a bonus of $5,000. Newly hired nurses are also eligible for bonuses, but the $5,000 would be paid in installments over several months.

The Arkansas tourism industry continues to flourish and is soon to surpass $10 billion in economic impact, according to the most recent report from the state Parks, Heritage and Tourism Department.

During budget hearings and continuing through the regular session that begins in January, legislators will tackle the difficult issue of controlling Medicaid costs.

Legislative budget hearings have begun at the state Capitol, in preparation for the 2025 regular session that begins in January.

A subcommittee of legislators is close to finishing its year-long study of Arkansas gun laws.

When the legislature convenes in regular session in January, lawmakers will consider changing how district courts are funded.

Most of the universities in Arkansas reported increases in enrollment for the fall semester.

Legislators and state officials continue to work on methods of improving maternal health care in Arkansas.

A special committee created by the governor last week issued its recommendations in a report called “Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies.” It calls for making access to health care more clear and convenient for expectant mothers.

A legislative committee has signed off on stronger penalties against pharmacy benefit managers that fail to reimburse local drug stores according to rates established in state law.