Rep. Jay Richardson

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Concurrent Memorial Resolution that honors the life and legacy of Bishop Kenneth Lydell Robinson Sr., who passed away in April 2026. The resolution formally recognizes his significant contributions to Arkansas, including his fifty years of ministry, his role as a founding father of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, and his work as a musician, radio host, and businessman. It does not change any laws or policies but serves to publicly acknowledge his achievements and impact on the state and his local community. Upon passage, the legislature will provide a copy of the resolution to Bishop Robinson's family.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the Arkansas homestead property tax credit for property owners, raising the annual reduction in real property taxes from $600 to $675. The change applies to assessment years starting on or after January 1, 2026, directly benefiting homeowners who qualify for the credit. By amending the state code, the legislation provides a slightly larger tax relief amount for eligible residents without altering other tax provisions.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 524 proposes making the operation of an illegal online casino or sports betting a felony offense in Arkansas. The bill creates the "Interactive Gaming Act," which expands the legal definition of interactive gaming to include online casino games and "name, image, or likeness" (NIL) drawing games. Under this Act, licensed casinos would be permitted to operate approved interactive gaming systems, subject to oversight and standards set by the Arkansas Racing Commission. This establishes a regulatory framework for certain forms of online gambling while criminalizing unlicensed operations.

Maddy summarySB 225 aimed to require the Arkansas Medicaid Program to create a new category of coverage specifically for beneficiaries diagnosed with sickle cell disease. This new category would have provided dedicated treatment for individuals with this condition. The bill also mandated that the Department of Human Services apply for any necessary federal waivers or Medicaid state plan amendments to implement this change. Its purpose was to establish a distinct pathway within Medicaid for sickle cell disease patients in Arkansas.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1534 proposes to increase the existing homestead property tax credit. This bill directly affects homeowners by reducing the amount of property taxes they owe on their primary residence. The key mechanism is an adjustment to the credit amount, providing a larger tax reduction for eligible households.

Maddy summaryHB 1251, known as the Arkansas Anesthesiologist Assistant Act, aims to establish a new licensed healthcare profession in Arkansas: anesthesiologist assistants. The bill, as amended, defines both anesthesiologists and anesthesiologist assistants, requiring assistants to be graduates of accredited training programs. It mandates that these assistants be licensed and in good standing with the Arkansas State Medical Board. The board would also be empowered to set specific licensing requirements, including continuing medical education hours, and to assess associated fees for licensure. This bill directly affects individuals seeking to practice as anesthesiologist assistants in the state.

Maddy summarySB 526 proposed to prohibit the retail sale of specific disposable vapor products in Arkansas. It defined a "disposable vapor product" as one with a non-detachable battery that cannot be refilled and is designed for disposal after use. The bill would have banned retailers from selling such products if they originated from a "prohibited foreign party." The Director of Arkansas Tobacco Control could seize non-compliant products, with violations being a Class A misdemeanor, although FDA-approved products were exempt. A 90-day grace period was included for businesses to liquidate existing inventory.

Maddy summarySB 501, known as the "Tenant Possessions Recovery Act," outlines new procedures for handling manufactured or mobile homes owned by a tenant after a court has ordered them to vacate a leased property. If a court issues an order for the tenant to give up possession, the landlord is not required to store the tenant's manufactured or mobile home. Instead, the tenant is responsible for removing their home at their own expense. The bill further states that if such a home remains on the leased lot 30 days after the court's order, it can be declared abandoned if the landlord makes a motion to the court.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 204 proposes to exempt certain financial gains from state gross income for tax purposes. This exemption would apply to taxpayers whose property is acquired by a government or entity under the right of eminent domain or the threat of condemnation. Essentially, any profit a property owner makes from such a forced sale would not be considered taxable income under this bill.

Maddy summarySenate Concurrent Resolution 2 (SCR 2) is a resolution that affirms the State of Arkansas's commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles. It expresses the belief that DEI is essential for all individuals to achieve the American Dream and encourages policymakers, educational institutions, workplaces, and other organizations to adopt and uphold these principles.