Senate News

2020 Fiscal Presents Difficult Challenges for Legislature

The 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.

State Parks Covid Hours

Download DOC Arkansas state parks will be open only during the daytime, in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus among dense gatherings of visitors at trailheads and campsites, state officials announced. Also, state officials and legislators joined in requesting that federal authorities close the Buffalo River National River, because so many out-of-state tourists were […]

Legislature Creates COVID-19 Reserve Fund

The legislature convened in special session to address potential revenue shortfalls, resulting from the sudden economic downturn caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus.

State Streamlines Process for Drawing Unemployment Insurance

To cushion the financial impact of the coronavirus outbreak on working families, the state has streamlined the process of applying for unemployment insurance.

Pay Raises Proposed for HDC Direct Care Staff

Pay raises have been proposed for direct care employees at the state’s five centers for people with multiple disabilities.

Budget Hearings Begin in Preparation of Fiscal Session

The legislature has begun budget hearings in preparation for the 2020 Fiscal Session, which convenes on April 8 and is scheduled to last a month.

Press Conference on Coronavirus

Senate Information Office: 501-682-5954

LITTLE ROCK – Health Department officials will join members of the legislative Committees on Public Health, Welfare and Labor for a press conference about the state’s response to the coronavirus outbreak, at 1 p.m. Monday, March 9, in the Old Supreme Court Room of the state Capitol.

Senator Missy Irvin of Mountain View is chair of the Senate Committee on Public Health, and Representative Jack Ladyman of Jonesboro of the House committee will be available, as will Dr. Nathaniel Smith, the state Secretary of Health.

They will outline the steps that state government is taking to keep the public updated and how to find the most recent information. Also, they will outline what protocol businesses should follow when staff need time off from work.

Expansion of Computer Science Classes an Arkansas Success Story

An Arkansas success story that is attracting national attention is the expansion of computer science classes in public schools over the past five years.

Legislators Begin Thorough Review of Highway Projects and Financing

Last 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.

DYS Presents Changes in Juvenile Treatment to Legislators

The 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.