Budget hearings continued this week at the State Capitol, and early voting is now underway for the November 3 General Election.
While voters are deciding who will represent them in the Arkansas House, preparations are already underway for the 96th General Assembly, which begins in January. There’s quite a bit that happens between Election Day and the first day of the legislative session, and much of that work begins almost immediately after the election.
One of the first major dates is November 6, when members will review the Governor’s balanced budget proposal. This gives legislators a starting point as they work through funding priorities for education, public safety, healthcare, and other state services.
On November 16, members can begin pre-filing bills and resolutions for the upcoming session. That means legislation can be introduced before the session officially begins, giving everyone a chance to see some of the proposals that will be up for discussion.
The next day, November 17, the House will hold its organizational meeting.
For representatives serving their first term, the organizational meeting includes drawing for seniority. All members, both new and returning, will also select their seats in the House chamber and choose their standing committee assignments.
Those committee assignments are especially important because much of the work on legislation begins in committee, where members hear testimony, ask questions, and consider proposed changes to state law.
Then, on January 11, the 96th General Assembly will officially convene for the 2027 Regular Session.
So while the election may be the focus right now, there’s plenty of work ahead before the first bill is debated on the House floor.
We’ll continue keeping you informed as the new General Assembly takes shape and preparations move forward for January.
