SUMMARY: A proposed budget bill threatens Arkansas healthcare by cutting Medicaid, potentially removing tens of thousands from coverage. Health workers warn the bill’s Medicaid cuts, including new work requirements and provider tax freezes, could force small hospitals to close, leading to job losses and reduced services, especially in rural areas. About one-third of Arkansans are on Medicaid, with over 800,000 currently covered. The bill extends 2017 tax cuts and eliminates overtime taxes on tips but offsets costs by slashing Medicaid funding. Arkansas Nurses Association lobbied against the bill, stressing the new six-month recertification could leave many uninsured. The House will vote on it soon.

Trump’s latest budget bill is set to knock tens of thousands of Arkansans off Medicaid, if approved. Here’s what local healthcare workers are saying.

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SUMMARY: Two major Central Arkansas road projects are nearing completion, offering relief to long-troubled areas. At the dangerous Denny and Canis roads intersection in West Pulaski County, plans shifted from a roundabout to a signalized intersection due to a land dispute. The new design will realign traffic and convert part of Denny Road to one-way, with construction expected to start mid-July. Meanwhile, the years-long widening of I-30 in Saline County is in its final stages, with crews finishing striping and installing reflective markers. The project aims to ease congestion and improve safety, with completion expected late this summer.

Pulaski Co. officials confirm construction will begin soon at the Denny-Kanis intersection, while ARDOT says the I-30 widening in Saline County is nearing completion

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SUMMARY: Starting in August, Centerton will implement Act 505, a new Arkansas law amending the Freedom of Information Act of 1967. This law requires voting members of commissions, boards, and city councils to attend public meetings in person, eliminating virtual participation. It provides clearer guidelines on what governing members can discuss privately versus what must be addressed in public forums, aiming to enhance transparency. City leaders and legal experts emphasize the law’s role in fostering trust and improving public access to information. Meetings will remain open to the public, with live broadcasts on YouTube and Zoom access also available.

A new Arkansas law taking effect in August will require local government board members to attend meetings in person and sets stricter rules to ensure transparency in public discussions.

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