Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

As the 2025 Regular Session of the Arkansas General Assembly enters its 11th week, the House has been advancing legislation designed to address infrastructure, election processes, and public health. 

 Improving Water and Sewer Infrastructure

One of the bills to pass this week was HB1681, which establishes the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program. This initiative creates a $50 million matching grant system aimed at improving water and sewer infrastructure across the state. With 80% of the funding allocated to "shovel-ready" projects, and the remaining 20% directed towards small towns and rural systems serving fewer than 1,200 customers, the program seeks to ensure that communities have the resources needed to address critical water and sewer needs. The grants will be funded by interest earnings from state funds.

Addressing Electricity Demand

Another piece of legislation approved was SB307. This bill allows utility companies to implement incremental rate adjustments as they begin construction on investments aimed at increasing the state’s generation capacity. 

Election Legislation

The House also passed several bills regarding the state's election processes. Among them was HB1574, which requires paid canvassers for statewide initiative or referendum petitions to be residents of Arkansas. 

HB1693 directs the State Board of Election Commissioners to establish rules for duplicating damaged or defective ballots.  Additionally, SB304 passed, allowing voters to cast a ballot after changing their county of residence—provided their updated registration is received by the county clerk before polls close on election day. 

HB1713 mandates that the Attorney General cannot certify a proposed ballot title if its reading level exceeds eighth grade, according to the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level formula.

Protecting Children Online

In response to growing concerns about the impact of social media on minors, HB1726 creates the Arkansas Kids Online Safety Act. This bill requires technology platforms to take reasonable measures to protect minors from harmful content that could contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse. 

Looking Ahead

As the House adjourns for an extended recess this week, lawmakers are set to return on Monday, March 31, to continue their work.

Sevier County 4-H’ers see government in action at 4-H Day at the Capitol

Sevier County 4-H’ers with DeAnn Vaught.

Sevier County 4-H members participated in 4-H Day at the Capitol, where they met legislators, learned about the legislative process, and shared how they are making a difference in their communities through 4-H.

They were among the 500 4-H members from 54 of Arkansas’ 75 counties who participated in the event held every other year when the Arkansas Legislature is in session. The statewide gathering is also a chance for 4-H to showcase its impact on a large scale.

The Sevier County delegation included 4-H members John Moe, Chip Stamps, Evan Wolcott, Max Rosson, Wade Melton, Kambree Haarmeyer, Leighton Frachiseur, Caselyn Van Voast, Braylee Reynolds, Margaret Moe, and Raegan Frachiseur along with Rex Hering and Kim Frachiseur.

The 4-H member group attended a Tribute to Arkansas in the Capitol Rotunda where several of the state’s elected officials spoke to them, including Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge, State Treasurer John Thurston, Secretary of State Cole Jester, and Attorney General Tim Griffin, who called the 4-H gathering “the single largest group ever assembled in the Arkansas Capitol” that he could recall.

Later in the day, members of the House and Senate read resolutions proclaiming March 4 as 4-H Day.

A highlight of the day was visiting with DeAnn Vaught and learning about her role as our local Arkansas Representative. Vaught spoke about the importance of young adults taking part in the legislative process and how they could make a positive impact.

Civic engagement and leadership are part of Arkansas 4-H’s mission mandates; the others are Healthy Living and Science.

4-H Day at the Capitol is just one event that helps 4-H members understand how they can lead and encourages them to think about citizenship and civic responsibility — tenets of the 4-H program, along with leadership, healthy living and science and technology.

To learn more about 4-H, contact Kimberly Frachiseur at the Sevier County Extension office at 870-584-3013.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Sevier County 4-H’ers learning about DeAnn Vaught’s job and how they can have an impact.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

During the 7th week of the 2025 Regular Session, the House approved HCR1006, extending the session until April 16, with adjournment Sine Die on May 5. 

The House passed three bills this week focusing on initiatives and referendum petitions. SB207 requires canvassers to inform potential petitioners that petition fraud is a class A misdemeanor. SB208 requires canvassers to verify petitioners' photo IDs before collecting signatures, while SB211 mandates canvassers to submit an affidavit confirming their adherence to Arkansas laws concerning canvassing, perjury, forgery, and election fraud.  

The House also passed two bills this week addressing human trafficking. HB1474 mandates the display of information about the National Human Trafficking Hotline at nail salons, massage businesses, and any privately owned facilities offering food, fuel, shower, or sanitary services, as well as overnight parking, within 1,320 feet of an interstate. HB1440 requires massage therapy establishments to list all therapists working there with the Arkansas Department of Health.  

Education legislation was also addressed with the passage of SB206 and HB1117. SB206 increases the maximum amount for literacy tutoring grants from $500 to $1,500, provided funding is available.

HB1117 states that all public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools must provide students with age-appropriate and grade-appropriate firearm safety instruction. 

Beginning March 3, the House State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee will begin hearing proposed constitutional amendments after House adjournment on Mondays. There are 20 proposals filed in the House, and the committee will hear testimony on all of the proposals before taking any votes. Pursuant to the Arkansas Constitution, the General Assembly can place up to three constitutional amendments on the November 2026 General Election Ballot.  

For more details, you can access proposed amendments, and recently filed bills, and watch all House meetings at arkansashouse.org.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

During this legislative session, over 130 bills have been signed into law. This week, two significant bills aimed at supporting Arkansas students were signed by the Governor. Act 123 ensures that every student in Arkansas public schools receives one free breakfast every school day, regardless of their eligibility for federal meal programs. Act 122, also known as the Bell to Bell, No Cell Act, prohibits students from using cell phones and personal electronic devices during school hours, with a few exceptions. 

The Governor also signed into law the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act. Act 124 is a $45.3 million investment to expand healthcare access for pregnant women. 

In other legislative news, the House passed SB98, which allows third-party delivery services to transport alcoholic beverages from certain retailers. The bill includes guidelines for the permit process and the responsibilities of retailers. Additionally, SB97 was passed, allowing businesses to own up to three retail liquor licenses, provided these licenses are in different counties, each with a population of 200,000 or more. 

The House also advanced several bills focused on teacher retirement. HB1161 permits members to purchase partial years of service credit for gap years, a provision previously unavailable. HB1156 shortens the waiting period for a new spouse to be eligible for survivor benefits from two years to one year following the member’s death.

Further, the House passed HB1258, which establishes the Community Health Worker Act and creates a statewide certification for community health workers. SB137, which was also approved, enables healthcare providers to store medical records electronically. 

HB1131, passed by the House, grants advanced practice registered nurses the authority to delegate certain nursing tasks to qualified healthcare workers.

The House passed HB1475, a bill that authorizes roadway construction or maintenance vehicles to use green lights. 

SB214, also approved by the House, adds second-degree murder to the list of offenses that disqualify an individual from meritorious furlough. 

Lastly, HB1437, which restricts level 3 and level 4 sex offenders from coming within 100 feet of water parks, swimming areas, children’s playgrounds, or public parks, was passed by the House. 

To watch all House meetings, visit arkansashouse.org.

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

As we move through the 2025 Regular Session, the Arkansas House of Representatives has passed several bills that will impact our communities, focusing on education, healthcare, and food security. Here’s a summary of the key measures approved during the fifth week of the session:

SB59: An Act to Provide Each Public School Student with Breakfast at No Cost

This bill ensures that every student in Arkansas public schools will be entitled to one free breakfast per school day, regardless of their eligibility for federally funded meals. Funded through medical marijuana tax revenue, the bill was passed with the goal of addressing food insecurity among students. Arkansas ranked as the hungriest state in the nation in 2023 with 18.9% of households experiencing food insecurity.

SB142: Bell to Bell, No Cell Act

The House also passed SB142, which addresses the growing concern over cell phone use in schools. Known as the Bell to Bell, No Cell Act, this bill mandates that public and charter schools prohibit students from using cell phones and personal electronic devices during the school day. There are exceptions, including emergency situations, and schools will be required to create policies in compliance with the guidelines set by the bill. These include allowing for the use of phones for special events, medical reasons, or for students accessing college coursework through two-factor authentication.

 HB1427: Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act

HB1427 represents a major step forward in supporting maternal health in Arkansas. The bill, which is a $45.3 million investment, expands access to healthcare for pregnant women. It establishes presumptive Medicaid eligibility for expectant mothers, creates reimbursement pathways for doulas and community health workers, and broadens Medicaid coverage to include remote monitoring services like ultrasounds, blood pressure checks, and continuous glucose monitoring. The bill also improves access to prenatal and postnatal care by unbundling Medicaid payments, ensuring coverage for up to 14 visits.

 These bills represent a commitment to improving the well-being of Arkansas’ families, from ensuring children have access to a healthy breakfast to expanding access to critical healthcare services. As always, we encourage all Arkansans to stay informed about the legislative process. You can watch all committee meetings and House floor proceedings live at arkansashouse.org

State Representative DeAnn Vaught weekly update

As the Arkansas House of Representatives enters the 5th week of the 2025 Regular Session, several key pieces of legislation have moved forward, addressing issues ranging from food freedom to healthcare access and election policy. 

One measure that received House approval, HB1149, ensures that counties and municipalities cannot impose regulations on vegetable gardens located on residential properties. This bill upholds the right of homeowners to cultivate their own produce without restrictions. Similarly, the House passed HB1048, which expands opportunities for small farmers by allowing the sale of unpasteurized milk at farmers' markets or through direct delivery from the farm where it is produced. 

Healthcare policy also saw legislative action this week. HB1181 allows certified nurse midwives to admit and discharge patients from licensed hospitals if granted privileges, improving maternal healthcare access. Additionally, HB1309 clarifies cost-sharing requirements for breast cancer examinations. 

The House also passed HB1221 this week, which limits the validity of ballot initiative titles and petition signatures to the election cycle in which they are approved and collected. 

In addition, the House also passed SB3, a bill that seeks to eliminate affirmative action programs in state government. The proposed legislation states that the state shall not discriminate against or grant preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in matters related to state employment, public education, or state procurement. 

The House also took up legislation impacting seasonal commerce, approving HB1324 to adjust the permissible sales period for fireworks. This bill moves the start date for summer fireworks sales from June 20 to June 13 while keeping the existing winter sales period unchanged. 

In the week ahead, the House expects to address cell phone restrictions in schools and free breakfast for students. You can watch all House committee meetings and House floor proceedings at arkansashouse.org.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

With committees ready to hear bills and legislative priorities taking shape, the 2025 Regular Session is off to a productive start.

Several House committees held their organizational meetings this week. These committees are now prepared to begin reviewing and debating the over 170 bills that have been filed in the House so far.  

Among the early legislative actions, the House passed HB1056, a bill to establish a Joint Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs. This new committee will consist of 12 House members and 8 Senate members from the Senate State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee. It will focus on ongoing studies related to military and veterans' issues, a critical area currently handled by the House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative and Military Affairs Committee. A resolution is expected soon to rename that committee to reflect its shifting responsibilities. 

Earlier in the week, the Governor addressed the 95th General Assembly and outlined her legislative agenda. A centerpiece of her plan is the Arkansas ACCESS initiative, which aims to expand access to higher education and non-degree credentials for Arkansans. She also proposed eliminating the state grocery tax, using revenue from medical marijuana sales to fund free school breakfasts for all Arkansas students, and enacting legislation to ban cell phone use in schools. In addition, the Governor announced plans to update the Social Media Safety Act to ensure its enforceability and expand the Communist China Defense Act, which would involve divesting state resources from China and banning adversaries from purchasing land near critical infrastructure like military bases and electric substations. 

The week began with House members sworn into office on Monday and the election of Representative Brian S. Evans of Cabot as Speaker of the House for the 95th General Assembly. Following his election, Speaker Evans announced his committee chairmanships and leadership appointments, which are now available on the House website at arkansashouse.org.

 As the first week concludes, the House looks ahead to a busy session. The House will reconvene on Tuesday, January 21, at 1:30 p.m., after observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day. 

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

The Arkansas General Assembly will convene for the 2025 Regular Session on Monday, January 13. 

The first day of the session will include the swearing-in of all members and the formal election of the Speaker of the House. While the Speaker is officially elected at the start of the session, the 94th General Assembly previously selected Rep. Brian Evans of Cabot as Speaker-designate. 

On January 14, the second day of the session, House and Senate members will convene jointly in the House Chamber to hear an address from Governor Sanders. This address will outline the Governor’s legislative priorities and provide key recommendations on the pressing issues facing Arkansas. 

Several important deadlines will shape the legislative process this session. Members must file legislation affecting publicly supported retirement or pension plans, the licensure of health care providers, or state/public school health insurance by January 27. Legislation regarding lottery-funded scholarships or constitutional amendments must be filed by February 12, and all appropriation bills must be filed by March 3. 

The Speaker will announce committee chair assignments on the first day of the session, and those assignments will be available at arkansashouse.org. Committee meetings and House floor proceedings are open to the public, providing Arkansans with an opportunity to see and participate in the legislative process. Those who wish to voice their support or opposition to a bill can sign in to speak during committee meetings, ensuring their perspectives are heard.

House committee meetings and floor proceedings are live-streamed and recorded, ensuring Arkansans can follow the legislative process in real-time from anywhere. Agendas and links to live-streams can be accessed at arkansashouse.org. 

As your state representatives work to address issues ranging from education to health care to economic development, we invite all Arkansans to engage with the legislative process. Whether you reach out to your representative, attend a committee meeting, or follow our live streams, your input helps shape the future of our state.

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

Maternal health will likely be a key focus of the 2025 Regular Session of the Arkansas General Assembly as lawmakers work to address an ongoing challenge in our state. 

Addressing maternal health will not only save lives but will also strengthen Arkansas families and communities. Currently, Arkansas faces one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation. More than 60% of Arkansas counties have limited maternity care, and many counties have none at all. Limited access to quality health care before, during, and after pregnancy creates serious risks for families. 

In March 2024, Governor Sanders signed an Executive Order to Support Moms, Protect Babies, and Improve Maternal Health. The order established the Arkansas Strategic Committee for Maternal Health, which brought together over 100 stakeholders representing organizations from across the state. 

The committee's comprehensive report offers several recommendations to address the maternal health crisis, including:

• Creating Medicaid pathways for doulas and community health workers as provider types with reimbursable services.

• Expanding prenatal care services at local health units where care is currently limited or unavailable.

• Establishing a Family Medicine Obstetrics Fellowship and exploring the creation of obstetrics and gynecology residencies and a school of midwifery in Arkansas.

• Considering the establishment of maternal health homes and expanding the Life360 Maternity Care Homes program.

The proposals represent solutions to combat the maternal health disparities affecting our communities and ensure that every Arkansan has access to the support and care they need during one of life’s most critical moments. The Governor’s budget proposal also includes $13 million in new Medicaid funding for recommendations made by the committee. 

The General Assembly will convene on January 13, 2025. All meetings of the House of Representatives will be streamed live and available for replay at arkansashouse.org.

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

The Arkansas House Committee for Aging, Children and Youth, and Legislative and Military Affairs met this week and reviewed the annual report from the Department of Human Services' Division of Children and Family Services. The report provided significant insights into the state's foster care system during State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2024.

At the conclusion of SFY 2024, Arkansas had 3,553 children in foster care, representing a notable decrease of 12 percent from the previous fiscal year's count of 4,023. This decline indicates progress in addressing the needs of children in the state's care.

One key highlight from the report was the observation that more children exited foster care during SFY 2024 than entered the system, demonstrating positive strides in achieving permanency for these vulnerable children. Neglect and substance abuse emerged as the predominant reasons for children entering foster care throughout the year.

Of the children who left foster care in SFY 2024, 42 percent were reunified with their families, 30 percent were adopted, and 9 percent were discharged to relative custody. Notably, a significant 92 percent of children exiting care in Arkansas achieved permanency through avenues such as returning home, placement with relatives, adoption, or other permanent arrangements.

The division’s goal is to have at least one foster home bed available for each child in foster care. The ratio of licensed foster home beds to children in foster care was 0.75 at the end of the year, identical to the previous year.

Foster parents help support families during a difficult time. They work as a team with the child’s case worker to ensure the well-being of the child in their care. A foster parent’s impact reaches far as they provide a positive influence across the community. If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent, we’ve posted a link on our website with information about the process. Visit arkansashouse.org.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are starting to think about our shopping lists and where we want to spend our hard-earned money. Now is the perfect time to consider supporting small businesses in Arkansas.

First and foremost, shopping at small businesses is a direct way to support your local community. With over 280,000 small businesses across the state, they represent 99.3% of all Arkansas businesses. By choosing to shop locally, you’re not just supporting the owners and employees of these establishments; you’re contributing to the economic health of your neighborhood. Small businesses are often the backbone of communities, providing jobs and a unique sense of identity. In fact, 47.5% of all Arkansas employees work for small businesses, underscoring their importance in our local economy.

Many small retailers curate products made locally or sourced from independent artisans, allowing you to give truly one-of-a-kind gifts to your loved ones. By supporting these businesses, you are investing in the creativity and talent of artists and craftsmen within your community.

Moreover, when you spend your dollars at small businesses, you ensure that a significant portion stays within the local economy. Research indicates that 68 cents of every dollar spent at a small business remains in the community, creating a ripple effect that helps to create jobs and contribute to the overall economic well-being of your area. This reinvestment is crucial, especially during the holiday season when many businesses are counting on the influx of seasonal shoppers to sustain them through the year.

Additionally, small businesses play a critical role in job creation, accounting for two-thirds of net new jobs in our country. They drive innovation and competition, which ultimately benefits consumers by providing more choices and better services. 

This holiday season, let’s celebrate local businesses and the vital role they play in making Arkansas a vibrant place to live and work.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

This week, members elected to serve in the 95th General Assembly gathered in the House Chamber for an Organizational Meeting. Members chose their seats and committees, and incoming freshmen drew numbers for seniority. You can find the seniority list and lists of committee memberships at arkansashouse.org.

As we move forward, members have begun filing bills that will be considered during the upcoming 2025 Regular Session. More than 50 bills have been filed so far in the House. The proposed legislation addresses topics from maternal health coverage to voter registration. Our website also includes a link to the recently filed legislation.

There was another big development this week at the Capitol as Governor Sanders presented her balanced budget proposal to members. The governor’s proposal calls for a 2.89% increase in spending. The governor says her proposal prioritizes education, maternal health, public safety, and government efficiency.

As Education Freedom Accounts will be available to any student in the state next year, the governor said she is proposing $90 million in additional funding, plus an additional $90 million in set aside funding to create a reserve for the program.

The proposed budget also includes $13 million in new Medicaid funding for proposals created by the Strategic Committee on Maternal Health. The proposal includes $100 million for Medicaid sustainability.

The proposal includes $3.15 million in new funding for the proposed state employee pay plan and nearly $50 million for the Department of Corrections.

This proposal will be considered by the 95th General Assembly during the 2025 Regular Session. The session begins on January 13, 2025.

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

Arkansas is home to more than 182,000 veterans.  As we approach Veterans Day, we’d like to take this opportunity to thank every one of them for their selflessness and bravery. We are also grateful to families of service members and veterans who also serve this nation with their support and sacrifice. Whether they served in times of war or peace, our veterans all share an unwavering belief in the cause of freedom.

The Arkansas General Assembly continually reviews ways to ensure our veterans and their families are well cared for and that our policies make life a little easier for those who call Arkansas home.

In 2017, we passed Act 141 which exempts military retirement benefits from state income tax.

In the 2023 Regular Session, we passed several pieces of legislation aimed at improving benefits for veterans including Act 395.  This act amends the definition of  “homestead” for purposes of the property tax exemption for disabled veterans, surviving spouses, and minor dependent children of disabled veterans.

Act 201 seeks to have veteran disability benefits excluded as income for eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by directing DHS to seek a federal waiver.

ACT 137 adds consideration of national certifications toward initial occupational licensure and extends the application of the Arkansas Occupational Licensing of Uniformed Service Members, Veterans, and Spouses Act of 2021 to spouses. The act also eliminates the one-year limit for veterans to apply service education, training, or certifications toward initial occupational licensure.

ACT 649 repeals the deadline by which students must apply for school transfers under the Public School Choice Act of 2015 for children of uniformed services families and allows a child to be eligible for enrollment in the public school of his or her choice if certain conditions are met.
We will continue to study policies that support our veterans and their families.

We encourage Arkansans to consider ways they can support our veterans this Veterans Day and throughout the year. There are numerous volunteer opportunities across the state. Medical facilities, VA hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics need volunteers to perform a wide range of duties.

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

It is almost time to make your voice heard in the upcoming General Election. Early voting starts next week on Oct. 21, 2024. Election Day is November 5. This is your chance to vote for local, state, and federal offices, as well as participate in annual school board elections for districts that vote in the fall. Additionally, there will be local ballot issues and a runoff election for the Arkansas Supreme Court.

In 2023, the General Assembly passed Act 300, which requires that special issues, such as sales tax proposals and bond issues, be included on the same ballot as candidate elections. This means that your vote could have an even greater impact on the future of your community.

When you go to the polls, an election official will ask you to state your name, address, and date of birth. The election official will also request that you provide an approved form of I.D. If you are unable to vote in person on Election Day, you can apply for an absentee ballot by the appropriate deadline. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail or electronic means is October 29. If applying in person, the deadline is November 1. If you have questions about absentee voting, contact your county clerk.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

This week, the House and Senate Education Committees approved a proposed recommendation for educational adequacy. The plan to increase state funding to $8,162 per-pupil for the 2026 school year and $8,371 per-pupil for the 2027 school year reflects a commitment to investing in the future of Arkansas students.  The current funding amount is $7,771 per-pupil.

The Arkansas General Assembly has a long history of prioritizing education funding. The foundation funding model established in 2003 has been instrumental in determining the essential resources needed for an adequate education, and the recent approval of the educational adequacy report builds upon this foundation.

The funding matrix used by Arkansas calculates per-student funding based on a variety of factors, ensuring that students have access to equal opportunities in areas ranging from teacher salaries to technological resources. The approved recommendation also addresses important evolving needs for students, such as school safety and mental health support.

One key aspect of the proposal approved by the committee this week is the increase in funding for schools to hire more special education teachers and provide higher wages for classified staff.   While school districts have discretion in how they use these funds, these recommendations are designed to support the overall improvement of educational outcomes for Arkansas students.

This report will now be delivered to the Governor, the House Speaker, and the Senate Pro-Tem for review. It will assist the General Assembly in not only determining educational funding but also in shaping the state budget as a whole.

We’ve posted a link to the report at Arkansashouse.org.

October is Farm to School Month in Arkansas - State Representative DeAnn Vaught

As we enter the month of October, Arkansas gears up to celebrate Arkansas Farm to School Month – a time dedicated to connecting schools, early childhood education sites, and various organizations with local farms to provide children with access to fresh, healthy food.

This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to foster a deeper connection between communities and local food producers, enriching the lives of students and families alike. By changing food purchasing and education practices within schools and alternative learning environments, Arkansas Farm to School Month aims to empower children to make informed food choices while contributing to the local economy and creating vibrant communities.

One of the key components of Farm to School is the implementation of school gardens, which serve as invaluable educational tools. These gardens not only provide students with the opportunity to consume healthy foods but also enable them to engage in hands-on learning through gardening and farming. Studies have shown that when children are involved in growing their own food, they are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and are more willing to try new varieties.

Currently, Arkansas boasts an impressive 350 school gardens across the state, each varying in type and design, including greenhouses, raised beds, and containers inside classrooms. These gardens not only promote healthy eating habits but also foster a deeper connection to nature and provide valuable lessons in nutrition.

The Arkansas General Assembly passed The Local Food, Farms, and Jobs Act in 2017 and amended the act in 2019. The act requires institutions to set a goal of spending at least 20% of their purchase of food products on local food. It also requires institutions to complete a reporting form, created by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, on their local food procurement budget on a yearly basis.
In the most recent reporting cycle, 284 institutions serving children aged 18 and younger reported spending over $194 million on food, with nearly 20% of their food budget allocated to local foods.

As we celebrate Arkansas Farm to School Month, let us recognize the importance of promoting healthy eating habits, supporting local farmers, and providing educational opportunities for our youth. By fostering a connection between students, communities, and local food producers, we can create a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

The deadline to register to vote for the November General Election is fast approaching.  If you are not already registered, you have until Monday, October 7 to turn in your registration form. The General Election and Nonpartisan Runoff Election will be held on November 5. 

Early voting begins on October 21. Polls for early voting will be open between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10:00 am – 4:00 pm on Saturday. Early voting ends at 5:00 pm on the Monday prior to the election.  

Voting is a cornerstone of democracy, a fundamental right that empowers citizens to influence the direction of their government and society. It gives Arkansans a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their daily lives. When Arkansans participate in elections, they express their opinions on critical issues, ensuring that their values and priorities are represented. 

Submitting your voter application at a state agency, in a voter registration drive, or through the U.S. Postal Service does NOT guarantee your registration. You should follow up on the status of your registration just as you would on any other personal business matter. Before considering yourself a registered voter, you must receive an acknowledgment of your registration from the county clerk. Feel free to call your county clerk and inquire about the status of your application. You may also check your voter registration status online by visiting www.voterview.org. 

Voter registration applications may be found at sos.arkansas.gov. If you are registering to vote by mail you must provide either your driver’s license number or the last four digits of your Social Security number on your Arkansas Voter Registration Application, or check the box in #9 on the application to indicate that you do not possess either a driver’s license or Social Security number.

We encourage you to verify your registration and make plans now to cast your ballot.

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

As we welcome September, it’s a time to recognize the vital role that rice plays in Arkansas and to celebrate National Rice Month. Our state stands proud as the number one producer of rice in the United States, contributing significantly to both our economy and our communities.

 Every year, Arkansas harvests an impressive 200 million bushels of rice, supporting nearly 25,000 jobs across the state. This remarkable industry not only boosts our economy, contributing over $6 billion annually but also enriches our agricultural heritage. It’s worth noting that 96% of the 2,300 rice farms in Arkansas are family-owned and operated, embodying the spirit of hard work and dedication that defines our communities.

 In addition to its economic impact, the rice industry is committed to sustainability. Over the past 30 years, our rice farmers have made tremendous strides in reducing environmental impact by cutting water use by 52%, greenhouse gas emissions by 40%, and the land required to grow rice by 39%. These efforts demonstrate our farmers' commitment to not only producing high-quality rice but also protecting our natural resources for future generations.

 Moreover, the rice industry plays a crucial role in fighting food insecurity within our state. Each year, Arkansas rice farmers generously donate over 200,000 pounds of rice to help those in need. This act of kindness highlights the community spirit that binds us together as Arkansans.

 Rice is grown in over 40 counties throughout our state, showcasing the agricultural diversity and richness of Arkansas. As we celebrate National Rice Month, let us take the time to appreciate the hard work of our rice farmers and the impact they have on our economy, environment, and community well-being.

 Consuming Arkansas-grown rice helps support our neighbors. You can help celebrate rice month by purchasing Arkansas-grown rice at your local supermarket.

Weekly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

Our neighborhoods are more than just places where we live. They are the very essence of our communities, reflecting our values, aspirations, and pride.

Arkansas is the Natural State. We pride ourselves on the beauty of our lakes, rivers, woods, and trails. We should also take that same pride in our sidewalks, parking lots, and city streets. That’s why we are encouraging Arkansans to sign up for the Great Arkansas Cleanup. 

This year, the Great Arkansas Cleanup will take place from September 7 to October 31. 

 In 2023, the hard work and dedication of Arkansans paid off, with nearly 150,000 hours spent participating in cleanup activities. Volunteers removed a staggering 514 tons of bulky waste from 2,132 miles of roadways and 772,051 acres of parks and public areas in all 75 counties.

 Not only did volunteers clean up alongside waterways and shorelines, but they also collected 6,227 tires, 2,418 tons of recyclables and planted over 1,878 trees, shrubs, and flowers. Additionally, 182 litter grabber kits were distributed to individuals who wanted to clean their communities but were unable to join larger cleanups.

 The impact of the Great Arkansas Cleanup goes far beyond just picking up litter. In 2023, the total economic value returned back to communities in Arkansas was nearly $5.4 million. This shows that investing in keeping our state clean pays off in more ways than one. Additionally, there were nearly 23,000 volunteers, representing a 63% increase over the last 5 years. This demonstrates the growing commitment of Arkansans and the power of community coming together to keep Arkansas beautiful.

 By taking part in this statewide community improvement campaign, you can make a difference in your community and help keep Arkansas beautiful for generations to come. Find information on how to organize a cleanup event in your community and register your event to receive free bags, gloves, and t-shirts (while supplies last) at keeparkansasbeautiful.com.

 Together, we can continue to make our state a cleaner, greener, and more vibrant place to live. Let's work together to make Arkansas even more beautiful!

Weeklly update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

As we approach Labor Day, it’s crucial to highlight a significant initiative aimed at making our roads safer. From August 16 through September 2, including the Labor Day holiday weekend, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will partner with Arkansas law enforcement for the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" high-visibility enforcement campaign. This effort is designed to deter impaired driving and prevent the tragic accidents that have marked previous Labor Day weekends.

To underscore the importance of this campaign, consider the statistics from 2022. During the 2022 Labor Day holiday period (from 6 p.m. on September 2 to 5:59 a.m. on September 6), there were 490 traffic crash fatalities across the nation. Alarmingly, 39% of these fatalities (190) involved a drunk driver, and 25% involved drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) nearly twice the legal limit (.15+ BAC). For drivers aged 18 to 34, the numbers are even more concerning—47% of those who died in crashes during the holiday were driving with a BAC of .08 or higher.

Here in Arkansas, we are committed to reducing these preventable tragedies. In 2022, our state saw 643 traffic fatalities, 153 of which involved drivers with a BAC of .08 or higher. Over the Labor Day weekend alone, we lost five lives in traffic accidents, one of which was caused by a drunk driver.

The Arkansas General Assembly has taken steps to strengthen our laws concerning drunk driving. In 2019, we passed Act 783, making it a Class C felony for anyone who recklessly causes serious injury to another person while driving under the influence.

The Arkansas Highway Safety Office offers several recommendations to ensure your safety:

• Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.

• If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 9-1-1.

• If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, help them find another way to reach their destination.

• Always wear your seat belt. It’s your best defense against a drunk driver.

For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving or contact the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. Additionally, learn about Arkansas' "Toward Zero Deaths" campaign at https://www.tzdarkansas.org/ as we work together to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities.

Stay safe this Labor Day—don't drink and drive.