Rep. Shad Pearce

Maddy summaryHR 1106 is a resolution passed by the Arkansas House of Representatives to formally recognize Game Warden Brady Smith of the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission for receiving the National Wild Turkey Federation's Wildlife Officer of the Year award. The resolution acknowledges his work in combating poaching, community engagement (including education programs and youth outreach), and exceptional enforcement achievements during his first two years as a game warden. It directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to Smith upon adoption, which occurred on April 9, 2025. This is a symbolic gesture with no policy or legal impact, solely honoring his professional accomplishments.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a law) honoring University of Arkansas women's basketball player Izzy Higginbottom. It recognizes her athletic achievements during the 2024-2025 season, specifically her status as the Southeastern Conference scoring leader (24.4 points per game), third in the nation, and her record-setting performance including 780 total points and 242 made free throws. The resolution expresses the Arkansas House of Representatives' admiration for her accomplishments that "bring renown to her team and to the State of Arkansas." It does not create new policies or affect any laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HB 1561) is a technical amendment to remove all references to "the State of Qatar" from existing state laws. It deletes phrases like "or the State of Qatar" or "from the State of Qatar" from 17 different sections of the code, correcting outdated or erroneous text. The bill does not create new policies, affect any individuals or groups, or change legal requirements. It was passed by both chambers and became law as Act 473 on April 8, 2025, solely to update legal references.

Maddy summaryThis resolution commemorates the 75th anniversary of the federal Sport Fish Restoration Program (established by the 1950 Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act). It recognizes anglers, the sportfishing industry, state fish and wildlife agencies, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for their role in funding conservation through excise taxes on fishing equipment and boat fuels. The resolution directs that a copy be provided to the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission, congressional offices, and media to acknowledge this partnership. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new policies or funding mechanisms.

Maddy summarySB 409 prohibits financial services providers from refusing to do business with or terminating relationships with agricultural producers solely based on their status as such. It defines "agricultural producer" to include those growing crops, raising animals, or producing livestock/dairy products. The bill requires Arkansas' Treasurer to publish a list of financial providers found to discriminate against agricultural producers, after giving them 45 days' notice and a 30-day window to prove they are not discriminating. This list will be posted online, with the process involving an ESG Oversight Committee and requiring agricultural producers to consent to sharing financial data if they report discrimination.

Maddy summarySB 317 prohibits Arkansas public institutions of higher education from engaging in specific activities with "prohibited foreign parties." It directly affects universities and colleges receiving state funding by banning them from conducting agricultural research under contract or selling agricultural products (including seeds) with such entities. The bill defines "prohibited foreign parties" but does not specify which entities qualify. This policy change restricts certain financial and research transactions between Arkansas colleges and designated foreign entities, without altering broader academic collaboration rules. The bill passed as Act 351 on March 20, 2025.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 263 (now Act 330) increases the amount of the homestead property tax credit available to Arkansas homeowners. This policy change directly benefits qualifying homeowners who own and occupy their primary residence, reducing their annual property tax bill. The bill amends the existing tax credit structure to provide a higher dollar amount for eligible taxpayers. It became law after passing the Arkansas legislature and being delivered to the Governor on March 13, 2025. The change represents a concrete adjustment to tax relief for qualified homeowners without altering eligibility requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 1049 (now Act 238) amends Arkansas criminal law to establish a new offense for "unlawful squattering." The bill makes it a criminal violation for a person to occupy property without the owner's permission, specifically targeting individuals who enter or remain on property after being asked to leave. This directly affects individuals occupying vacant or abandoned properties without legal right, such as vacant homes or land. The key provision creates a specific criminal charge (likely a misdemeanor) for this conduct, distinct from general trespass laws, and specifies that the offense applies after the owner or their agent has issued a verbal or written demand to vacate.

Maddy summaryHB 1368 amends the list of musicians honored on Arkansas Music Appreciation Day by adding specific names to the official roster. The bill directly affects the state's commemorative designation for music professionals recognized annually. It is a procedural update to the existing holiday framework, not a policy change with broader implications. The bill became law as Act 203 on February 27, 2025, after passing both chambers.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 1028) formally recognizes National FFA Week (February 15-22, 2025) in Arkansas. It acknowledges the work of the National FFA Organization and Arkansas FFA Association - highlighting their 17,503 members and role in agricultural education - without creating new laws or funding. The resolution serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment, directing the House to send a copy to both FFA organizations. It has no policy impact beyond symbolic recognition.