The U.S. Department of Agriculture is allocating $5.6 million to support Arkansas farmers and food distributors in accessing new markets, with $4.2 million directed towards a grant program. Announced by Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffit at the Arkansas Foodbank, the funding aims to improve food insecurity rates in Arkansas by enabling small farmers to aggregate products for schools and food banks, increase processing capacity, and add value to local products. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture will provide technical assistance, and P.J. Haynie emphasized the importance of equity and diversity in the program's success.

Education service cooperatives in Arkansas face budget cuts under a new proposal from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. Arkansas farmers are urging Congress to allocate more funding for conservation efforts. A festival during the total solar eclipse weekend aims to celebrate and preserve Arkansas' musical heritage. The Arkansas Newswrap, hosted by Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen, covers these stories and more.

Brian Malinowski, executive director of Little Rock's Clinton National Airport, was fatally shot by federal agents during a search warrant raid, leading to controversy and legal scrutiny. The Middle East Studies Association criticized the University of Arkansas for not defending academic freedom amid faculty criticisms over perspectives on Israel. The episode also covers severe weather preparedness, a wrongful termination lawsuit, and a Netflix documentary filmed in Pulaski County Jail, along with the emergence of two broods of cicadas in the region.

Bryan Malinowski, executive director of Little Rock's Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, died from injuries sustained during a shootout with federal agents. The incident occurred when agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives attempted to serve a search warrant at his home. Malinowski, who had been with the airport since 2008 and served as its executive director since 2019, was accused of making private firearm sales to an ineligible buyer. Arkansas State Police are investigating the incident. The Malinowski family expressed their grief and questioned the government's actions leading to the raid.

Arkansas farmers are advocating for the continuation of conservation funding under the USDA's NRCS, which received nearly $20 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Arkansas received $724 million, aiding farmers like Jared Phillips in sustainable practices and resource preservation. An advertising campaign by Invest in Our Land emphasizes the need for federal conservation funding. The Farm Bill, which includes various USDA programs, is due for reauthorization. Senator John Boozman and Representative Rick Crawford have commented on the bill's progress and funding plans. Farmers like Phillips see conservation programs as economically beneficial and environmentally responsible.

Bryan Malinowski, the executive director of Little Rock's Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, was injured after firing on federal agents from the ATF who were serving a search warrant at his home. An ATF agent was also injured. The incident is under investigation by the Arkansas State Police, with the prosecuting attorney to determine the legality of the use of deadly force.

Arkansas is set to identify areas without high-speed internet access as part of the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which has allocated over $1 billion to the state. The BEAD program, under the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration, requires an accurate mapping of broadband coverage. Evan Feinman, the BEAD program director, highlighted the upcoming 'challenge process' where discrepancies in the Federal Communications Commission's map can be addressed. The state will seek private sector bids to build broadband networks, particularly in rural areas, to balance the cost of infrastructure and potential revenue. More than 215,000 homes and businesses in Arkansas currently lack high-speed internet. The BEAD program is part of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, with $42.5 billion dedicated to improving nationwide internet access.

Three people died and at least five were injured in a Jonesboro shooting. Arkansas U.S. Reps. Rick Crawford and Steve Womack secured federal funding for various initiatives. A judge permitted plaintiffs to amend their complaint against an Arkansas law altering the petition process. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is on a trade mission to South Korea and Japan. Bill Whitworth, a Hot Springs native and former editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, passed away at 87.

The Arkansas Newswrap is set to cover a range of topics including a new ambassador program aimed at enhancing accessibility and inclusion on outdoor trails, the rise of the GOP in Arkansas, and a State of the City address by a mayor in Northeast Arkansas. Hosts Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen will discuss these stories on the upcoming episode, which airs Fridays at 8 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.

In central Arkansas, snow persists with temperatures not expected to rise above freezing until Wednesday. State offices are closed due to dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills. A lawsuit has been filed by a former Pulaski County juvenile detention employee who claims they were fired for reporting sexual abuse. Governor Sarah Sanders has not commented on reports that former President Trump received $8 million from foreign governments.

The SoMa Cares program in Little Rock's South Main Street neighborhood allows patrons to round up their purchases to donate to local nonprofits. Initiated by SoMa 501 in response to a tornado in 2023, the program supports a different nonprofit each month, with potential donations reaching up to $2,000. Elizabeth Michael, executive director of SoMa 501, notes strong community support and participation from about ten businesses, with plans to expand. The Wolfe Street Foundation will receive January's donations, followed by various other nonprofits throughout the year.

Arkansas is bracing for frigid temperatures and snowfall early next week, with central Arkansas expected to be the hardest hit. The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures to fall into the teens by Saturday night, with sub-freezing high temperatures to follow for several days. Northwest Arkansas will see arctic air move in Saturday night, and snowfall is expected to begin late Sunday in the Little Rock area, potentially accumulating six to eight inches by Monday. The subsequent concern is the bitterly cold temperatures and wind chills, with Little Rock anticipating a low of seven degrees and a wind chill of eight below zero on Monday night. Snowfall totals will influence when temperatures will rise above freezing later in the week.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is allocating $5.6 million to enhance Arkansas' food supply chain, with $4.2 million directed towards a grant program for local producers and distributors. Announced by USDA Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffit at the Arkansas Foodbank, the initiative aims to help farmers access new markets and reduce food insecurity. The program, in collaboration with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, will also offer technical assistance. P.J. Haynie of the National Black Growers Council highlighted the importance of equity and diversity for the program's success. The funding is part of a larger $420 million USDA initiative announced in May 2023, with applications due by February 16.

Little Rock City Board members will debate re-authorizing a contract for a controversial crime-stopping technology. Attorney General Tim Griffin rejects proposals to enshrine the Freedom of Information Act into the state constitution. $1 million in grants will go to pregnancy resource centers in the state. The head of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce says lawmakers could propose new tax cuts in the coming months.

Two weather systems are expected to bring winter weather and high winds to Arkansas. The National Weather Service forecasts rain, colder temperatures, and possible wintry precipitation starting Friday morning, primarily affecting western and northern Arkansas. Central Arkansas may see snow showers and a wintry mix, but it will turn to rain by Friday afternoon. Another storm system early next week could bring heavy rain and winds up to 40 mph, with potential for snowfall as the system departs. High winds and heavy rain could cause downed trees and damage.

A Hot Springs man died following a police standoff in Little Rock. A hearing is scheduled this week for a legal challenge to an Arkansas prison oversight law. New tax cuts are now in effect in Arkansas. Heifer International, based in Little Rock, is suing over the failed sale of its headquarters to Lyon College for new dentistry and veterinary schools.

Libraries across the United States, including Arkansas, are becoming battlegrounds over book bans, with conservative groups like Moms for Liberty clashing with librarians. A panel discussion featuring Garland County Library Director Adam Webb, Little Rock Public Radio Politics and Government Reporter Josie Lenora, and John DiPippa, dean emeritus of the UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, addresses the complexities of these bans. The event, part of a series by Little Rock Public Radio, the Central Arkansas Library System, and the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County, was recorded live on Zoom on November 29, 2023.

Arkansas faces conflict and controversy during the holiday season, with the governor and prison officials clashing over solutions to prison overcrowding. A lawsuit has been filed against the Jonesboro Police Department for alleged wrongful termination, while the City of Fayetteville is seeking new methods to address its litter issue. These stories are featured in the Arkansas Newswrap, hosted by Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen, airing Fridays at 8 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.

A French aerospace company is expanding its Little Rock facility with a $100 million investment. Arkansas' agriculture secretary has rejected a request for emergency aid for farmers impacted by a poultry company's shutdown. The University of Arkansas has sanctioned a fraternity due to hazing allegations. Goodwill Industries of Arkansas has announced the creation of a combined education and workforce training center.

Pulaski County has launched a new 4.7 megawatt solar farm at the Port of Little Rock, which will power 90% of the county's operations with renewable energy. The project, led by County Judge Barry Hyde, is part of a 25-year agreement with Today’s Power and is expected to save the county $250,000 annually in electricity costs. The initiative, which took over eight years to develop, is celebrated for its innovation and cost-efficiency, with no expense to taxpayers.

State prison officials are moving forward with expanding bed space despite objections by the Board of Corrections. Auditors have found that the Arkansas Economic Development Commission approved $4 million in ineligible tax credits for businesses. A former Democratic state lawmaker is running for Arkansas Treasurer. The Little Rock Chamber of Commerce reports that more than 1,600 jobs have been created in the region this year.

The Little Rock School District is exploring cost-saving measures due to declining enrollment and increasing construction expenses. A journalism program in northeast Arkansas has been discontinued, prompting university officials to seek alternatives. Over $17.5 million is allocated for research to enhance health outcomes for pregnant women in Arkansas and beyond. These stories are featured in the latest edition of the Arkansas Newswrap, hosted by Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen.

Much of central, southern, and southeastern Arkansas could face severe weather over the weekend. The Arkansas Supreme Court will soon consider a case challenging the legality of the state's vote counting machines. Legislative auditors expect to complete the investigation into Gov. Sarah Sanders' purchase of a $19,000 lectern early next year. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that a barge was freed after being stuck along the Arkansas River near Fort Smith.

Arkansas state revenue exceeded forecasts in November, while the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System faced investment losses. A Norwegian food packaging company is set to build a $70 million facility at the Port of Little Rock. Shorter College has plans to repurpose a disused railroad depot in North Little Rock.

Attorney General Tim Griffin rejects a proposal to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution. A new study explores the link between access to healthy food and weight gain during pregnancy. A UA Little Rock professor receives a grant to study online 'cognitive attacks.' Former Razorback football coach Bobby Petrino may return to Fayetteville.

The latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom includes a proposed constitutional amendment to prevent Arkansas lawmakers from restricting abortion access, a new grant for an Arkansas nonprofit to assist the homeless in finding stable housing, recognition of 36 families for farming on Arkansas land for over a century, and revenue growth at Little Rock's Clinton National Airport.

A $17.5 million grant from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute is funding a study by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Community Health Centers of Arkansas to address maternal health disparities and nutrition. The study aims to provide nutritional counseling and healthy food deliveries to pregnant women, particularly those in rural and minority communities. Key partners include Walmart, the Arkansas Minority Health Commission, and the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance. The research will focus on reducing complications during pregnancy and postpartum, with a significant portion of the funding directed to community clinics.

The Arkansas River Valley Area Council, based in Russellville, Arkansas, has been awarded a $1.25 million grant from the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund to enhance services for people experiencing homelessness. The grant will allow ARVAC to focus on wrap-around services, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, securing identification, clothing, and housing subsidies. The funding is particularly significant as ARVAC's previous grant funding had been substantially reduced. The Bezos Day 1 Families Fund has distributed over $600 million to organizations across 48 states, with ARVAC serving a nine-county area in western Arkansas.

The American Heart Association highlights shorter life expectancies in rural U.S. areas compared to urban regions due to limited healthcare access. An Arkansas nonprofit aims to engage more young people in agriculture in Africa. Hosts Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen discuss these topics and more on the Arkansas Newswrap.

The Arkansas Newswrap for the week covers the beginning of the election season in Arkansas, discussing candidates and their prospects. The program also addresses solutions to international food insecurity by Arkansas' senior U.S. senator and highlights the efforts of a northeast Arkansas native to amplify the voices of orphan children. Hosted by Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen, the show airs on Fridays at 8 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.

ExxonMobil plans to start lithium extraction in southern Arkansas. A deal to establish schools of dentistry and veterinary medicine at Heifer International's Little Rock headquarters has fallen through. A state senator announces a primary challenge to incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Steve Womack. Tyson Foods, based in Springdale, reports significant financial losses.

Seis Puentes Hispanic Outreach, a nonprofit in North Little Rock, celebrated the groundbreaking of its new headquarters aimed at better serving the city's Spanish-speaking population. Executive Director Raul Fernández emphasized the importance of the new space in providing practical advice and support to newly-arrived immigrants. The nonprofit, which has been active for over 20 years, offers services such as English lessons and assistance with utility bills and school registration. The expansion, costing around $300,000, will be partially funded by grants from the City of North Little Rock.

Former Gov. Asa Hutchinson remains in the race for the Republican presidential nomination. Former gubernatorial candidate Chris Jones discusses the Democrats' prospects in statewide elections. A Palestinian man from central Arkansas reports his family has left Gaza after over a month. Cybersecurity incidents targeting public entities are increasing in Arkansas.

Arkansas PBS executives are questioned by lawmakers over hiring and procurement procedures. The Little Rock School Board approves the merger of two high schools. Attorney General Tim Griffin calls for the expulsion of student visa holders who support terrorism. Arkansas Children's announces a new $70 million research facility focusing on the effects of opioids on children.

Arkansas Children’s is establishing the National Center for Opioid Research and Clinical Effectiveness with a $70 million facility on its main campus in Little Rock. The center, funded by a $50 million settlement with opioid manufacturers, aims to address the lack of research on opioid effects on children. CEO Marcy Doderer and Attorney General Tim Griffin emphasize the center's potential to attract ongoing funding and become a national leader in opioid research. The facility will feature a brain imaging center and a clinical research unit, with construction starting in late 2024.

The latest local and regional news includes new lawsuits alleging decades of abuse at an Arkansas religious camp, Central Arkansas Republican U.S. Rep. French Hill filing for re-election, a former Democratic lawmaker from North Little Rock announcing plans to run for a state House seat, and Pulaski County officials celebrating a successful rescue of two people from a swamp south of Little Rock.

Gov. Sarah Sanders endorses former President Donald Trump's campaign for the White House. Democratic challengers announce campaigns against Arkansas' incumbent U.S. congressmen. A new grant will help Little Rock Police expand their Community Response teams. Mills University Studies High School experienced a brief lockdown on Monday.

More than a thousand people gathered in Jasper to discuss the Buffalo National River. An investigation into possible child labor violations at Tyson has led to protests and community leaders speaking out. A new poll shows Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders with a lagging approval rating. The Arkansas Newswrap, hosted by Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen, covers these stories and more.

Arkansas law enforcement agencies and school districts receive new federal funding. The first case of H5N1 avian influenza for the year is identified in a Northwest Arkansas chicken flock. Arkansas revenue declines in the initial months of the fiscal year. The Arkansas Department of Human Services launches National Adoption Month.

The latest local and regional news highlights a new poll showing Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders with the lowest approval rating of any Arkansas governor in 20 years. Private schools are opting out of the new LEARNS Act voucher program. Arkansas' Republican U.S. senators discuss aid to Israel and Ukraine amid ongoing budget talks. A Democratic challenger announces his bid to unseat incumbent U.S. Representative French Hill.

State officials anticipate record-breaking medical marijuana sales. The presidential campaign manager for former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson resigns. Arkansas' treasury increases its investment in Israel bonds. Attorney General Tim Griffin addresses the state's directive for a Chinese company to divest its Arkansas land holdings.

A blogger sues Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders over alleged violations of the Freedom of Information Act. State lawmakers hear testimony opposing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. A new study reveals Arkansas ranks worst in the nation for food insecurity. Little Rock Police are organizing a drug takeback event this weekend.

State officials are exploring new strategies to address Arkansas' opioid crisis. A nonprofit aiding the homeless and near-homeless in Arkansas is undergoing a rebranding. A Democrat has declared their intention to challenge Republican U.S. Representative Steve Womack. The son of former Governor Asa Hutchinson has been released from jail early.

Rep. Steve Womack defends his decision not to support Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan for House Speaker. Former Pulaski County Judge Buddy Villines passes away at 76. Ongoing negotiations aim to expand social safety net programs to Arkansas' Marshallese community. A federal appeals court denies a former Arkansas judge's request to dismiss his bribery conviction.

Higher education officials face scrutiny over DEI initiatives, a Chinese-owned company is asked to leave Arkansas, and a Northeast Arkansas hospital addresses a healthcare gap with a new 'dialysis den'. Efforts are also underway to change the designation of the Buffalo National River. These stories are discussed in the latest edition of the Arkansas Newswrap, hosted by Brandon Tabor, Matthew Moore, and Daniel Breen.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed an executive order banning the use of non-gender specific terms in government documents, such as 'pregnant people' and 'birth giver.' Sanders emphasized the importance of a woman's perspective and criticized the left for prioritizing political correctness over women's issues. The order also prohibits terms like 'human milk' and 'chestfeeding,' with Sanders citing a specific instance from the state Health Department as justification. This follows a similar order banning the term 'Latinx' earlier this year.

A study by Americans for the Arts reveals that Arkansas' arts and culture sector had a $306.4 million economic impact in 2022, supporting 3,225 jobs and generating $33 million in government revenue. The study, which included input from audience members on the social value of arts, was the first to include Arkansas. Organizations like CACHE and Arkansans for the Arts plan to use the data to secure funding and expand operations, emphasizing the sector's significant contribution to the state's economy.

Arkansas lawmakers are debating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in public colleges and universities. Advocates are protesting against unsafe working conditions and child labor at Tyson Foods' Northwest Arkansas headquarters. Experts on human trafficking are meeting in Little Rock this week. A Democratic state lawmaker is discussing a ballot measure to exempt menstrual products from sales tax. The Delta Regional Authority has awarded $2.3 million for six rural infrastructure projects in Arkansas.

The latest local and regional news includes the death of longtime Little Rock City Manager Bruce Moore, a significant drop in Arkansas' Medicaid enrollment by over 257,000, U.S. Rep. French Hill discussing the ongoing battle for a new Speaker of the House, and an upcoming vote by United Methodist Church officials on whether to allow approximately 60 Arkansas congregations to disaffiliate.

Bruce Moore, the longest-serving city manager in Little Rock's history, has died at the age of 57. A news release from the city confirmed his death at home. Moore, who began his career with the city as an intern in 1994 and became city manager in 2002, was celebrated for his effective management and dedication to improving the city. He held degrees from Arkansas State University and Henderson State University and served as an Army reservist in Operation Desert Storm. Moore is survived by his son, Luke Thomas Moore, and fiancée, Siobhan Osborne. Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in his honor.

Arkansas lawmakers have given initial approval for an investigation into the governor's purchase of a $19,000 lectern. The Arkansas Supreme Court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the legislative vote on the LEARNS Act. Education officials are set to meet to discuss rules for a new school voucher program. A new grant aims to improve mental and behavioral healthcare in Arkansas. Dignitaries, including former President Bill Clinton, paid their respects to the late former North Little Rock Mayor Pat Hays.

Arkansas Democrats criticize the state's Medicaid unwinding process, while the state's attorney general approves a ballot title to repeal sales taxes on menstrual products. The former chair of the Arkansas State Medical Board is arrested on Medicaid fraud charges. Republican U.S. Sen. John Boozman provides an update on Farm Bill negotiations.

The Arkansas Department of Health is investigating the first locally-acquired case of malaria in the state, reported in Saline County. The infected individual has been released from the hospital. Dr. Naveen Patil, deputy state health officer, stated that the department is testing mosquitoes for the malaria parasite and coordinating with healthcare providers on testing and treatment capabilities. While the disease is not expected to spread widely, residents are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites. Cooler weather is anticipated to reduce the mosquito population.

A former Little Rock Police officer faces felony charges for shooting at a fleeing motorist. Arkansas identifies its first locally-acquired malaria case in Saline County. Several educators in Arkansas receive awards for their contributions. A Northwest Arkansas man pleads not guilty to charges related to the Jan. 6 Capitol riots. Former North Little Rock Mayor Patrick Henry Hays passes away at age 76.

Little Rock Public Radio reports on local and regional news for October 4, 2023, including a blogger's re-filed lawsuit against the Arkansas State Police for potential Freedom of Information Act violations, a dip in state revenue that still surpasses economic forecasts, a new initiative to advance the professional careers of artists in Pine Bluff, and the Arkansas Cinema Society's preparation for the annual Filmland festival.

The Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom reported on several local and regional matters for October 3, 2023, including an initiative to enshrine the state Freedom of Information Act into the Arkansas Constitution, the establishment of a new Public Safety Commission by Little Rock's City Board of Directors, a Republican Arkansas House member's decision not to run for reelection, and an update from U.S. Representative Rick Crawford on Farm Bill negotiations.

Hillary Clinton visited Little Rock for a panel on civic engagement decline. Arkansas sees a downward trend in COVID-19 cases post-summer spike. Rep. Tippi McCullough spoke on the state's Medicaid unwinding. Public health pioneer Dr. Joseph Bates passed away at 90.

Lawmakers are calling for an investigation into Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' purchase of a $19,000 lectern. An advocacy group has re-submitted a proposed ballot measure to eliminate Arkansas' sales tax on menstrual products. Arkansas State University is offering free tuition for students from families earning less than $70,000 annually. A legal challenge continues against Arkansas' law ensuring drug discounts for clinics and pharmacies serving rural and low-income communities.

Arkansas is experiencing a growing prison population, now exceeding 18,000 incarcerated individuals. State officials argue for the need for more prison bed space, while advocates consider the number excessively high. The conditions inside prisons and efforts to improve them were discussed by panelists Zachary Crow, executive director of DecARcerate, and Kaleem Nazeem, who served nearly 29 years in prison, during a live Zoom event on September 14, 2023. The event is part of a series by Little Rock Public Radio, the Central Arkansas Library System, and the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County.

A federal appeals court is expected to soon rule on a challenge to an Arkansas law that mandates drug makers comply with a federal program offering discounts for prescription drugs to clinics and pharmacies serving rural and low-income communities. The law, Act 1103, was passed in 2021, making Arkansas the first state to enact such legislation. Pharmaceutical companies have been attempting to undermine the law, which has been upheld by a federal judge. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America are seeking to overturn it, arguing it is preempted by the federal 340B program. Community Health Centers of Arkansas and the state Insurance Department are defending the law, with a ruling from the 8th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals anticipated in the near future.

The Little Rock Housing Authority board members have decided not to resign despite a request from Mayor Frank Scott Jr. UA Little Rock has announced a new teacher training partnership with the Jacksonville-North Pulaski School District. New school safety rules are close to final approval by state education officials. The North Little Rock parks director has resigned after three months in the position.

The article discusses the United States Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) consideration of two sites in Arkansas as potential detention centers for unaccompanied migrant children. The sites include a former USDA facility in Kelso and the Little Rock Air Force Base. This follows President Trump's policy reversal on separating undocumented children from their families at the Mexico border. Local officials and activists have expressed disapproval and concern over the use of these sites. The article also touches on the historical context of the Rohwer Relocation Center, a former Japanese-American internment camp, and includes statements from immigrants' rights advocates who criticize the administration's immigration policies and rhetoric. Personal stories and messages of solidarity for the detained children are shared by activists Andre Guerrero and Alejandro Wolfe Espinosa Villegas.

The article discusses the potential economic impact of retaliatory tariffs on American agricultural products, particularly in Arkansas. It references a study by the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture which estimated a $383 million impact from a 25% tariff on crops like soy, rice, corn, and sorghum. With China imposing tariffs on American goods including soybeans, and President Trump announcing new tariffs on Chinese imports, Arkansas soybean growers are concerned. The state exports a significant portion of its soybeans to China, and the tariffs could affect farm incomes, which are already low. The article also touches on the challenges faced by farmers, such as production costs, and the difficulty in attracting younger generations to farming. Jeremy Ross, a soybean agronomist, and Mervin Jebaraj, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research, provide insights into the situation.

The article discusses a court case in Arkansas that is indicative of the restrictive abortion laws in the region. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to rule on the constitutionality of a state law limiting access to medication abortions, leaving women in Arkansas with only surgical abortion options. Planned Parenthood is seeking a second temporary restraining order against the law, which requires medication abortion providers to have a contract with a doctor who has admitting privileges at a local hospital. The case is being compared to precedent set by the Whole Woman’s Health case in Texas. The article also mentions a similar situation in Missouri and legislative actions in Oklahoma aimed at restricting abortions. Planned Parenthood and the state Attorney General's office are presenting their arguments to Federal Judge Kristine Baker, who is seeking more information for fact-finding before making a decision.

The Arkansas Department of Human Services has assumed temporary control over two nursing homes, Dierks Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center and Spring Place Healthcare & Rehabilitation, due to financial issues with their operator, Skyline Health Care, LLC. The state's intervention follows concerns about nonpayment to food vendors, which raised fears about the residents' welfare. Although no food shortages occurred, the state took action to ensure the continued operation and care of the residents. Skyline, which operates 19 other facilities in Arkansas, has faced similar problems in other states. Reliance Health Care will manage the two facilities during the transition, and they will receive Medicaid funding. Skyline expressed regret over the situation and pledged cooperation during the transition.