Arkansas – The governor of Arkansas signed several bills into law, covering a wide range of issues including child custody, healthcare, public safety, and property rights.
Among the newly enacted laws is HB1704, which amends child custody laws for cases involving parents who are first responders. HB1275 eliminates prior authorization requirements for mental health crisis treatment, while HB1316 mandates coverage for lung cancer screenings. HB1505 ensures licensed counseling services for public safety employees who have experienced traumatic events.
Other notable legislation includes HB1721, which prohibits greyhound racing and the simulcasting of such events in Arkansas, and SB279, which updates the state’s minimum wage act to strengthen enforcement of wage and hour complaints.
On healthcare policy, SB189 allows ivermectin to be sold for human use without a prescription or consultation with a healthcare professional. SB111 establishes a compact for dentists and dental hygienists to ease professional licensing across state lines.
Education and election laws were also addressed. SB223 creates the Religious Rights at Public Schools Act of 2025, while SB353 changes election dates for primaries, school board elections, and certain special elections. SB417 repeals affirmative action program requirements at institutions of higher education and modifies various administrative policies for universities.
Additionally, HB1552 enhances penalties for fentanyl-related offenses, and SB409 prohibits financial service providers from discriminating against agricultural producers based on environmental, social, or governance (ESG) scores.
Several bills focused on taxation and government administration, including HB1129, which amends property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and their families, and HB1386, which modifies property assessment laws. HB1497 adds the Department of the Military to the list of agencies that can claim state tax refunds for outstanding debts.
The governor also approved SB424, which strengthens transparency and accountability requirements for municipal improvement districts, and SB345, aimed at improving the efficiency of private club permitting for hotels, restaurants, and large event facilities to promote tourism and economic development.
With these new laws in place, Arkansas lawmakers continue to shape policies on a broad spectrum of issues impacting residents, businesses, and public institutions across the state.