11-03-2025
Arkansas legislature Monday bills filed include ending electric vehicle support and campus affirmative action, more
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas legislature filed multiple bills on Monday.
Bills filed include electric vehicles, campus affirmative action, online safety and child labor.
Arkansas Public Service Commission submits proposed changes to Arkansas utilities legislation
ONLINE SAFETY
House Bill 1726 intends to create the 'Arkansas Online Kids Safety Act.' If it becomes law, it would mandate that online platforms that market to minors have a structure and controls in place to protect children from mental harm or encourage harmful behavior. The website would also limit how other people could contact a minor and allow their parents to place restrictions on an online account.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Senate Bill 416 would end the state-maintained Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund, which was formed to allow the Energy Secretary to issue grants to build charging stations.
HIGHER EDUCATION
Senate Bill 417 would strike many laws for state-supported higher education institutions. It would end affirmative action, a school's need to participate in the annual state energy use report, and the differentiation between classified and non-classified employees for benefits.
CHILD LABOR
If House Bill 1731 becomes law, anyone under 16 who wants to take a job would need an employment certificate that includes proof of age, a description of the job and work schedule, and written parental permission.
TEACHER TAXES
House Bill 1732 would double the amount teachers could deduct for classroom supplies from $500 to $1,000. Married teachers filing jointly would be able to deduct $2,000.
Back and forth among legislators about Arkansas ACCESS higher education legislation
GREYHOUND RACING
House Bill 1721 would prevent licensed casinos from conducting or simulcasting greyhound racing. License holders would also not be allowed to take bets on greyhound racing.
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