Arkansas politics

On the first day of the Arkansas Legislative Session, Rep. Stephanie Flowers, a Democrat from Pine Bluff, suggested an update to a rule requiring face coverings. She proposed an amendment penalizing anyone who fails to wear one at all times by docking per diem payments. The amendment was rejected on a voice vote.

An expected controvery over the race for House District 32 did not materialize during the first day of the 2021 Legislative Session. Roby Brock, from our content partner Talk Business and Politics, and John Brummett, from the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, reflect on the legal challenges to Democrat Ashley Hudson's election to the post in their weekly conversation.

With election season behind us, the Arkansas Public Policy Center has shifted its attention to the Arkansas Legislative Session. The center will continue its efforts to educate voters by sharing information about redistricting, as well as any constitutional amendments legislators refer to voters.

The 93rd Arkansas General Assembly convenes today with lawmakers, staff, lobbyists and the public required to observe strict COVID-19 protective procedures. Incoming Senate President Pro Tem Jimmy Hickey, R-Texarkana, walks us through the new pandemic rules.

The Regular Session of the 93rd General Assembly convenes today. Lawmakers have already filed bills on topics ranging from abortion to hate crimes. Sarah Kellogg, with our content partner KUAR, speaks with AP reporter Andrew Demillo to learn what we can expect from the 2021 session.

Two top Arkansas lawmakers and Governor Asa Hutchinson fielded questions from reporters about the 2021 legislative session at a two-hour virtual round table hosted Friday by the Arkansas Press Association and Associated Press. Questions revolved around proposed bills, pandemic procedures, as well as the recent attack by Trump supporters on the U.S. Capitol.