Maddy summarySenate Resolution 64 (SR 64) is a resolution from the Arkansas Senate urging the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness to modify several federal policies. The resolution calls for changes such as repealing specific federal rules, streamlining reporting requirements for local agencies, and reducing federal performance standards related to homelessness programs. It also urges a shift towards block grant funding to give Arkansas greater flexibility in allocating resources. The aim is to empower state and local governments and service providers to design housing solutions better tailored to the unique needs of their communities and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySenate Bill 221 (SB 221) aims to prohibit specific contracting practices by risk-based provider organizations when they negotiate with direct healthcare service providers in Arkansas. The bill prevents these organizations from using "tying" tactics, which involve requiring a provider to contract for multiple services if they only agree to one, or penalizing them for declining certain services. It also prohibits discrimination against providers who refuse such terms. Violations of these provisions would be considered unfair trade practices, and any problematic contract clauses would be voided. The bill seeks to ensure fair negotiation for providers and protect access to healthcare for Medicaid beneficiaries, especially individuals with disabilities.
Maddy summarySenate Memorial Resolution 2 is a commemorative bill that honors the life and public service of James "Jim" Guy Tucker, former Arkansas Attorney General, U.S. Congressman, and the forty-third Governor of Arkansas. The resolution serves to respectfully acknowledge his contributions to the state and nation following his passing.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 75 formally honors Sylvia Ann Hindsman Cornwell for her 45 years of exemplary and dedicated service to the Arkansas Senate and the State of Arkansas. It recognizes her significant contributions, such as modernizing Senate records and serving as the first female Secretary of the Senate.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 23 recognizes February 15-22, 2025, as National FFA Week in Arkansas. This resolution commends the National FFA Organization and its Arkansas Division for their work in agricultural education and youth leadership.
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 summarySenate Bill 634 creates the Division of Interscholastic Activities within the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. This new division is established to provide oversight and regulation for interscholastic activities, such as sports and clubs, for students in grades 6-12 at public and open-enrollment charter schools, with private schools having the option to participate. Its responsibilities include monitoring compliance with state and federal rules, promoting educational values and sportsmanship, and ensuring consistent interpretation of activity rules. The division will be led by an Assistant Commissioner and is required to submit an annual report to legislative education committees.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 73, known as the "Access to Credit for Our Rural Economy (ACRE) Act," proposed an amendment to Arkansas's income tax laws. It aimed to provide an income tax deduction for eligible lending institutions, such as national and state banks or trust companies. This deduction would apply to the net interest income received from "qualified agricultural loans." These qualified loans are defined as those made on personal property for agricultural purposes (like equipment or livestock) or on real property substantially used for agricultural production, meeting specific lien and loan-to-value requirements. The act was intended to take effect for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 315, titled the "Farmer Protection Act," aims to prevent large financial institutions from discriminating against Arkansas agriculture producers. The bill prohibits financial institutions with over $100 billion in assets from denying or restricting financial services to farmers based on their greenhouse gas emissions, use of fossil-fuel derived fertilizer, or reliance on fossil-fuel powered machinery. It creates a rebuttable presumption of discrimination if such an institution with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments denies services to a farmer. The Arkansas Attorney General and the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture are responsible for enforcing these provisions, with powers to investigate and assess civil penalties.
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.