Rep. Tara Shephard

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as Lux's Law, prohibits the sale of human remains intended for cremation or burial in Arkansas. It amends existing law to make it illegal to sell a corpse (or part of one) after it has been authorized for final disposition through these methods. The law establishes penalties, including fines or imprisonment, for violating this prohibition. It directly affects funeral homes, mortuaries, and anyone handling human remains before they are cremated or buried.

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 is a memorial resolution (HMR 1004), not a substantive bill. It formally commemorates James "Jim" Guy Tucker, who served as Arkansas Attorney General, U.S. Congressman, and the state's 43rd Governor. The resolution honors his career and legacy without enacting any policy changes or affecting any group. It passed unanimously in the Arkansas House of Representatives on February 25, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 59 requires all public schools to provide one free breakfast daily to every student upon request, without checking if they qualify for federally funded free or reduced-price meals. This policy directly affects all public school students in the state, eliminating eligibility barriers for breakfast access. The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon enactment. It changes school meal procedures by mandating universal breakfast availability as a standard practice, not tied to existing federal program eligibility. The bill became law as Act 123 on February 24, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution (HR 1033), not a legislative bill with policy changes. It formally recognizes the Arkansas Military and First Responders Academy during Arkansas' Career and Technical Education Month for its role in preparing students for military and first responder careers. The resolution has no binding effect - it simply expresses legislative support and directs a copy to the academy's leadership. It does not alter funding, create new requirements, or impact any policies.

Maddy summaryHR 1016 is a ceremonial House Resolution designating February 10, 2025, as "Kids Count Day" at the Arkansas State Capitol and formally acknowledging the Arkansas Kids Count Coalition for its advocacy on behalf of Arkansas children. The resolution highlights the coalition's work since 1996, including its 26 organizational members and 104 individual advocates across the state, and its efforts to improve child well-being through education and policy engagement. This resolution has no binding effect on policy or funding; it serves only as a symbolic recognition of the coalition's efforts. The resolution was adopted by the Arkansas House of Representatives on February 10, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates Monday, February 3, 2025, as "Links Legislative Day" at the Arkansas State Capitol to honor The Links, Incorporated. It formally recognizes the organization for its community service contributions, including its work with Arkansas chapters focused on youth mentorship, health initiatives, scholarships, and cultural programs. The resolution has no policy or funding impact - it is purely ceremonial, directing a copy to three Arkansas chapter presidents upon adoption. It does not create new laws or affect any legislative process.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) recognizing Lorie Tudor for her 41-year career with the Arkansas Department of Transportation. It formally acknowledges her service to the state but contains no policy changes or funding provisions. The resolution has no direct impact on citizens, laws, or government operations - it serves only as a symbolic gesture of appreciation. No voting record is relevant, as it does not advance legislation.