The Arkansas Legislative Council met this week to review a wide range of issues affecting education, state finances, energy policy, healthcare, and government operations.
Members began by reviewing the state’s latest revenue report. Gross General Revenue collections for the fiscal year-to-date totaled approximately $7.76 billion, an increase of $323.6 million, or 4.4%, compared to the same period last year. Net General Revenue Available for distribution reached $6.36 billion, up $456.8 million, or 7.7%, from May 2025. The Department of Finance and Administration also reported that it is projecting a surplus of approximately $585.8 million for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30.
The council reviewed proposed changes to the Educational Freedom Account (EFA) program for the 2026-27 school year. Proposed revisions include updates to eligible expenses, reimbursement procedures, sports-related expenditures, and limits on the amount of unused funds that may be carried forward from year to year.
Lawmakers reviewed new rules implementing Arkansas’s Wind Energy Development Act. The rules establish permitting requirements, safety standards, environmental review procedures, and decommissioning requirements for large-scale wind energy projects across the state.
The council also approved a proposed advertising and marketing contract for the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery and approved new health insurance contribution rates for state employees and public school employees for the upcoming plan year.
Lawmakers approved an emergency rule implementing Act 919 of 2025, which allows certain previously consolidated school districts to separate and operate as independent, isolated school districts under specific circumstances. The rule provides funding support for districts affected by those detachments as several isolated school districts prepare to operate independently beginning in the 2026-27 school year.
To review all reports, presentations, proposed Educational Freedom Account changes, health insurance contribution rates, and other materials considered this week, visit arkleg.state.ar.us.