Girls and Boys State Delegates Gather for Sessions

There have been some important political races taking place in the Natural State the past several days, and I'm not just talking about the upcoming primary runoff election.  More than 1,200 young men and women from across Arkansas gathered May 30 - June 4 on the campuses of UCA and Harding University for Arkansas Boys State and Girls State. These programs, sponsored by American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary, bring together the best and brightest high school juniors in the state, giving them an interactive education in government and civic responsibility, by letting them "elect" their own local, state and legislative officials. Not only does the experience teach students about the political process, but it engrains in them the importance of participation.

This is a vital message to send to these soon-to-be voters, especially when you consider the historically low voter turnout among young people. Less than half of 18-24 year-old American voters participated in the last presidential election. However, Boys and Girls State both help establish in participants a lifelong commitment to being active in all levels of government. For more than sixty years, Arkansas students have attended these highly regarded programs. You may remember, former President Bill Clinton represented Arkansas Boys State at Boys Nation, and former Governor Mike Huckabee was elected Governor of Arkansas Boys State decades before he ever lived in the Governor's Mansion. Former Boys State Governor and former White House Chief of Staff Mack McLarty said Arkansas Boys State was his first true glimpse at public service. "As a longtime and wise friend of mine often says, “This is a life changer,” when he is referring to a particular event or situation. I think it is fair and not an overstatement to say that the opportunity I had to participate in the American Legion Boys State Program when I was a senior at Hope High School was a life changer for me, and I believe it was for many other young men at that time (and young women give the Girls State Program), as well," said McLarty.

Delegates elected to office truly receive a hands-on experience. This year's Girls State and Boys State delegates elected to the House of Representatives spent a day making laws in the House Chamber at the State Capitol. With a little guidance from Arkansas House members, the students sponsored legislation and spent hours debating and passing bills dealing with matters ranging from creating a tax-free holiday, to repealing restrictions on teen drivers. The young representatives took their lawmaking roles very seriously and left the Capitol with a better understanding of the legislative process. "The Girls State and Boys State programs are wonderful learning opportunities for the young men and women who will be leading our local, state and national governments in the near future. I am pleased to have been associated with these two programs for more than three decades. I will always have a place in my heart for the outstanding Girls State and Boys State programs," said Arkansas House of Representatives Parliamentarian Tim Massanelli, the 1949 Boys State Speaker of the House.

While you may not see any of these young people's names on the ballot this go 'round, give it some time. I feel certain the Class of 2010 Boys State and Girls State delegates will emerge as some of Arkansas's greatest leaders of tomorrow.

View Girls State House Bills.  View  Girls State Senate Bills. 

View Boys State House Bills 1001-1003, 1004, 1005

View Boys State Senate Bills 1-8



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