News

This week marked the 8th consecutive year of a heartwarming Christmas celebration at the Capitol. Legislators, Capitol staff, state agencies, and lobbyists gathered to spread holiday cheer by bringing gifts for children in foster care. Year after year, this event is eagerly anticipated by participants as it brings much-needed joy and smiles to the faces […]

This week, the House Public Transportation Committee and the Senate Transportation, Technology, and Legislative Affairs Committee heard testimony from the Arkansas State Police and the Highway Police concerning the prevalent issue of driving in the left lane. In 2021, the Arkansas General Assembly passed legislation aimed at addressing the challenges posed by inappropriate use of […]

We are currently celebrating 2023 Sounds of the Season performances, where choirs and groups from all over the state of Arkansas come to perform in the Capitol’s 2nd Floor Rotunda. Please check out the schedule for the day’s lineup.

This week, the House Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development Committee approved two interim studies regarding tax incentives. The first interim study proposal approved directs the committee to study the sales and use tax exemptions for farm machinery and equipment and the potential use of sales and use tax exemption cards. The committee was informed there […]

As 2024 is approaching we would like to take this time to give Arkansans a look at what is ahead for the General Assembly. Pre-fiscal session budget hearings will begin Wednesday, March 6, 2024. Over the course of the budget hearings, the committee will hear budget requests for all state boards, commissions, and agencies. These […]

While the convenience of department stores and online shopping is undeniable, we’d like to take this time to encourage you to incorporate shopping locally this holiday season. Saturday, November 25, 2023, is Small Business Saturday – a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for their communities. Small businesses are the […]

The State of Arkansas will observe Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 23, 2023, and Friday, November 24, 2023, by Governor’s Proclamation. State Capitol offices and state buildings will be closed.  The State Capitol will be closed on Thanksgiving Day but will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, November 24th, and the remainder […]

As we gather around our tables this Thanksgiving, we encourage Arkansans to take a moment to acknowledge the unsung heroes of this holiday season—our farmers.Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives, and the hardworking men and women who toil in the fields, day in and day out, deserve a […]

The State of Arkansas will observe Veterans Day as an official state holiday on Friday, November 10, 2023. State Capitol offices and state buildings will be closed.   However, the Secretary of State Elections Division will be open for candidate filing during normal business hours.   The State Capitol building will be open to the public […]

As November rolls around, we are reminded of a day that holds a special place in the hearts of countless Americans – Veterans Day. On this occasion, we pause to reflect on the sacrifices, courage, and unwavering commitment of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Honoring our veterans is about recognizing the […]

This week, the House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative and Military Affairs Committee convened with the Senate Children and Youth Committee. Members were presented with the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Advisory Council Annual Report. These findings shed light on the alarming statistics surrounding Alzheimer’s disease in the state, revealing both present challenges and future hurdles facing […]

The Arkansas Legislative Council and its subcommittees convened this week. In these meetings, the council received an update regarding the implementation of LEARNS, an update regarding a study of our state’s firearms laws, and approved funding to expand nurse training programs in the state. Education Secretary Jacob Oliva updated the committee on the use of […]