AUDIO: Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address | Improving the Unemployment Benefits System

LITTLE ROCK – Today I’d like to a talk about the improvements we’ve made to our unemployment benefits system. I want to assure the thousands of Arkansans who have lost a job because of the COVID-19 pandemic that we are working diligently to get the benefits out the door.

Eighty state employees are answering the telephones at the call center seven days a week from 6 a.m. until 4 p.m. Then they work until 6 p.m to make sure applicants are getting what they need.

The Division of Workforce Services has just launched a new one-stop website that will accelerate the process for those who need answers or who need to file an unemployment claim.

ARunemployment.com includes a link to EZARC, where the unemployed can file a claim. The new website will provide regularly updated information regarding COVID-19-related unemployment benefits.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to rearrange almost everything about our lives. As painful as these adjustments have been, they were right and necessary. The health of Arkansans continues to be my highest priority.

As we dealt with the devastating impact of the physical health of Arkansans, we also have had to deal with the economic health of the state and the financial health of thousands of Arkansans who have been thrown out of work.

We have taken some steps to lighten the load for the newly unemployed, including a temporary waiver of the requirement to search for a new job while you receive unemployment.

It is not an exaggeration to say that this health crisis has been a blow to the Arkansas economy. For several years, we have enjoyed business expansion and job creation that produced the lowest unemployment rates in the state’s history.

Then the coronavirus came ashore, and suddenly the unemployment rate has increased significantly.

The current crisis is not over, but it will end. We will recover. This has stalled us, but it hasn’t cracked the solid economic foundation we’ve built through the achievements of Arkansans who have created hundreds of businesses big and small. We have created a business environment that attracts business.

Arkansas is a small state, but we have built a reputation that is bigger than our boundaries and population. We have built a state that is bigger than a historic flood or a worldwide health crisis. The people of Arkansas care for each other.  

As to the future, we will get back to business and growth, but we must continue to follow the public health guidelines to make sure our citizens stay healthy and safe.

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Friday (04.17.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Friday, April 17, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

Public Health Emergency Regulatory Suspensions Pursuant to Executive Order 20-06 and 20-16

On March 17, 2020, Governor Asa Hutchinson issued Executive Order 20-06, ordering state agencies to “identify provisions of any regulatory statute, agency order or rule that in any way prevents, hinders, or delays the agency’s ability to render maximum assistance” to Arkansans during the COVID-19 health emergency. The Order instructed state agencies to identify regulatory statutes, orders, and rules that are hindering or preventing the rapid response necessary to combat the spread of and recovery from COVID-19. The Order requires agencies to identify any such statutes, orders, or rules on its website. Once posted, the statute, rule, or order is deemed suspended for thirty (30) days from the effective date of EO 20-06. On April 13, 2020, Governor Asa Hutchinson issued Executive Order 20-16, extending the suspension until this emergency subsides.

The Secretary of Health has identified certain statutes and rules issued by the Department that he deems a hindrance to mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

They include the following:

Dept of HealthMedical Marijuana patient applicationsArkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016:
Amendment 98

Extending the expiration dates on cards expiring in the 30 day period until emergency declaration is concluded and crisis passes.

Telehealth for the PWC is temporarily allowed until emergency declaration is concluded

Dept of HealthHome Health Agencies20-10-806 and Rules for Home Health AgenciesSurveys and inspections are temporarily suspended, with the exception of immediate jeopardy complaints:

• Suspended RN supervisory visits

• Allow extension of current care.

Dept of Health, HospitalTerm: “Physician” is assumed to be that of a medical doctor.

Emergency Definition:

“Physician” means Qualified Medical Professional, working within their scope of practice.

Qualified Medical Professional also includes:

• Physician assistant

• Nurse practitioner

• Clinical nurse specialist

• Certified registered nurse anesthetist

• Certified nurse-midwife

• Clinical social worker

• Clinical psychologist

• Anesthesiologist’s Assistant

• Registered dietician or nutrition professional

Dept of HealthState Hospital RulesThe Medical Staff will be responsible for assuring these professionals provide quality care, they also can approve roles and responsibilities (privileges) to members.

Section 6: Medical Staff

B.  Medical Staff Bylaws

1.  Medical Staff shall be responsible to the Governing Body of the facility for the quality of medical care provided for patients in the hospital and for the clinical and professional practices of members.Dept of HealthArkansas Rules for Hospitals and Related Institutions, Section 11.E.1There shall be no more beds maintained in the building than the number of beds for which the hospital is licensed except in the case of a public disaster or national emergency and then only as a temporary measure.There is no need to request an increase in licensed beds at this time as we are under a National/State Emergency with the Covid-19 outbreak.Dept. of HealthNewborn Screening Program20-15-301 and Act 113 of 1995CAH programs do not provide direct services for newborn screening or infant hearing. CAH programs oversee the following statutes and rules which require person-to-person contact during service delivery. Each of these services occur following birth of a child where person-to-person contact is required.Dept. of HealthInfant Hearing ProgramAct 1559 of 1999. 20-15-1501CAH programs do not provide direct services for newborn screening or infant hearing. CAH programs oversee the following statutes and rules which require person-to-person contact during service delivery. Each of these services occur following birth of a child where person-to-person contact is required.Dept. of HealthLicensed Lay MidwiferyLLM Rule 302.01Risk Assessments.Dept. of HealthLicensed Lay MidwiferyLLM Rule 302.02Required Antepartum Services at or Near the Initiation of Care.Dept. of HealthLicensed Lay MidwiferyLLM Rule 302.04.01Routine antepartum visits must be made approximately every four (4) weeks during the first 28 weeks of gestation, approximately every two (2) weeks from the 28th to 36th weeks, and weekly thereafter until delivery.Dept. of Health

Licensed Lay Midwifery

LLM Rule 302.05Required Antepartum Services at 24-28 weeksRow►Dept. of Health

Licensed Lay Midwifery

LLM Rule 302.06Required Antepartum Services at 35 to 37 weeksDept. of Health

Licensed Lay Midwifery

LLM Rule 302.07.01Pre-Delivery Home VisitDept. of HealthEmergency Medical ServicesLicensure Renewal ExtendedDept. of HealthEMS/Trauma

1. Aligning with NREMT and allow for provisional licensure for paramedic, EMT and AEMT licenses. Looking at the data, we will only have 24 paramedic candidates who could be eligible for this provisional certification, provided the students pass the paramedic course and the cognitive exam. We have an additional 118 paramedic candidates that will possibly be eligible by September. With clinical and field internships delayed, these student’s graduation dates may be delayed. While this may not gain a large number of individuals, under these particular circumstances, some may be better than none.

2. EMS providers that did not recertify within the past 4 years, be looked at for temporary licensure as well. These individuals could not have had their license revoked or suspended by the Agency, but that were in good standing when they relinquished their license. All EMS providers work under the direction of a medical director, EMS agencies could vet these candidates with "temp" licenses and use them should their personnel get ill or are otherwise restricted from work.

Dept. of HealthSECTION IV. GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICE LICENSURE CLASSIFICATION STANDARDS B. 6.

Tiered Response: A licensed ambulance service which has its own dispatch center and uses a dispatch process with certified emergency medical dispatchers that is recognized by the Section and is reliably able to differentiate and categorize the severity of the emergency call may assign the appropriate level of ambulance to that call. Services utilizing a tiered response dispatch process shall meet the following provisions:

a. The emergency call must be answered and screened by a certified Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD). EMD Certification must be obtained and maintained by a National Recognized Certifying body that is recognized by the Section of EMS.

b. The EMD Center must have Medical Direction oversight.

c. The service shall be required to have a quality assurance program in place to insure compliance with their service protocols and shall be reviewed by the Medical Director within 30 days of the call date.

d. All tiered responses that require a higher level intercept shall be tracked separately and reported to the section on a quarterly basis.

e. The service shall have a process in place that would specifically and reliably identify which calls are appropriate for less than the highest level of permitted ambulance and track all calls in which this dispatch process is implemented.

f. All requirements are met for the ambulance that is responding for equipment, personnel and licensure standards set forth in regulation.

Dept. of HealthSECTION IV. GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICE LICENSURE CLASSIFICATION STANDARDS A. 2 -4

2. Licensed Paramedic Services shall have fifty percent (50%) or more ambulances permitted at the Paramedic level. Only licensed Paramedic Services may operate Paramedic ambulances.

3. Licensed Advanced EMT Services shall have fifty percent (50%) or more ambulances permitted at the Advanced EMT level. Only Advanced EMT and Paramedic Services may operate Advanced EMT ambulances.

4. Licensed EMT Services shall have ambulances permitted only at the EMT level. Paramedic and Advanced EMT Services may also operate EMT ambulances.

Dept. of HealthD. Specific Standards 1. B., 3. B., 4. B., 5.B.Temporary Rule to Implement:
Remove the 2-minute reaction time. This will also for proper triage and screening to ensure the protection of the responding providers and allow for proper PPE to be used and ambulance to be configured if needed.Dept. of HealthSECTION V. PERMITTING OF GROUND EMERGENCY VEHICLES B. Vehicle General Standards 5., 9., 10

5. New ambulances replacing a permitted vehicle or being added to an existing service license must be inspected and permitted prior to being placed in service.

9. Only ambulances of a Paramedic or Advanced EMT Service shall be equipped with ALS Equipment unless a prior request for an upgrade has been made and approved by the department.

10. Temporary upgrades and downgrades of permitted ambulances are for mechanical reasons only and must be for a temporary period of time. Notice shall be made in writing on approved forms to the Department prior to any changes in equipment or staffing of permitted ambulances. Upgrades and downgrades are not permitted for the purposes of staffing. Permanent upgrades and downgrades shall follow the same guidelines as a new vehicle permit.

Dept. of HealthSECTION V. PERMITTING OF GROUND EMERGENCY VEHICLES C. Ambulance Staffing Requirements 1-7Temporary Rule to Implement:
Allow ambulance services to staff their ambulance with the highest trained personnel available to respond for service. This may include adding physicians, nurses, or other licensed healthcare providers.
Allow ambulance services to staff their ambulance with a driver who is not currently licensed as an EMS provider.Dept. of HealthSECTION IX. EDUCATION, TESTING AND LICENSURE OF PERSONNEL B. 5.Emergency Vehicle Operator: a. Successful completion of a National recognized First Responder Course of a minimum of 40 hours of training. b. Copy of a current signed Healthcare Provider CPR card (Must follow current American Heart Association Guidelines and require a hands on skills component) documenting completion of a CPR course designed specifically for healthcare providers. c. Emergency Vehicle Operator Course d. 10 hours of refresher training every two years to include emergency vehicle operations.Dept. of HealthSECTION IX. EDUCATION, TESTING AND LICENSURE OF PERSONNEL C. 1-2Directive already issued to extend relicensure deadline to June 30, 2020 See directive at https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/pdf/license_renewal_extension.pdf.Dept. of HealthOther Suggestions

1. Mechanisms for temporary licensure of EMS providers who have lapsed licensure within the past 5 years. We could modify licensure and credentialing procedures to meet the exigencies of the situation while assuring public health and safety.

   • The state could implement a just-in-time training program, combined with appropriate and coordinated information to the EMS medical directors and EMS providers, that will help to ensure appropriate and competent medical care.

2. All EMS providers to include points of referral for patients who need information but do not need emergency care or transport. Allow EMS Services to not transport patients that would not need emergency transport, but provide information of health alternatives, or connect them to a COVID evaluation hotline. the appropriate care may be to have individuals stay at home and practice social distancing and quarantine measures rather than be transported to a healthcare facility.

   • EMS Treat and Release - Community containment strategies designed to limit the spread of the virus may require patients be treated and released without transport. Additionally, healthcare facilities may become overwhelmed with patients, making it necessary to consider alternative options for patients who can be safely treated without transport.

   • If a treatment without transport role is deemed appropriate for EMS providers, the EMS medical director, in coordination with local public health authorities, should establish criteria and reporting requirements.

   • “Treat and release” and “treatment without transport” protocols require oversight by EMS medical directors.

   • EMS agencies and EMS medical directors should coordinate with the local public health authorities to pre-determine the destination of both suspected COVID-19 and positive COVID-19.

     • Appropriate education programs for EMS personnel, physicians, and the public should be established before the implementation of non-transport policies. 

Dept. of Health Rules pertaining to Tuberculosis (2020)Temporarily suspending baseline screening for health care workers and long-term care

UA Cossatot Summer and Fall 2020 Registration Now Open

UA Cossatot’s summer and fall registration is now open to everyone with the summer semester set to begin on Monday, June 1, 2020. Students can sign up for classes by contacting a Student Services Advisor online, over the phone, through text message, or through Facebook messenger.

The complete full class schedule for the summer and fall courses can be viewed at UA Cossatot’s website at www.cccua.edu/enroll.

Cossatot Community College

Click the following links to access the PDF version of the current or upcoming semester's full course schedule. Summer 2020 Schedule (3.26.2020) Fall 2020 Schedule (4.16.2020 Find specific courses through Campus Connect Course Search. There's no need to login.

All classes offered this summer will be available online, and several online options are available this fall. The college if offering courses for specific programs as well as general education.

Incoming students or prospective students can take steps to enroll in any UA Cossatot course by contacting any one of the seven Student Services Advisors at UA Cossatot. Advisors include: Addison Hill, Rachel Barfield, Jocelin Galvez, Lizz Garza, Sheila McCandless, Holly Norman, and Suzanne Ward.

Their individual e-mail addresses and phone numbers can be viewed on UA Cossatot’s website under the employee directory by clicking on their name at www.cccua.edu/directory. On Facebook, students can search the advisor’s name at UA Cossatot to locate them and send them a message.

Cossatot Community College

©2020 Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

Due to Covid-19, UA Cossatot’s Campuses are currently closed to the public, but Student Services Advisors are still working from home.

For any questions, please contact UA Cossatot at 870-584-4471.

Boozman, Cotton & Womack Honor Arkansas Sailor Who Died of COVID-19

A photo provided by the U.S. Navy shows Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker Jr., 41, of Fort Smith, Ark., assigned to the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt, who died from the coronavirus Monday, April 13, 2020, at U.S. Naval Hospital Guam. 

U.S. Navy/AP

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton—along with Congressman Steve Womack—honored the service and life of Fort Smith, Arkansas native Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker, Jr. who died as a result of coronavirus related complications after serving aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt.

“Chief Petty Officer Charles Thacker, Jr. honorably served our country in uniform. His dedication to our nation was perhaps only surpassed by the tremendous love he had for his dear family. Petty Officer Thacker’s appreciation for the special things in life – particularly his loved ones and passions – reminds us how precious time really is and how this virus poses a threat to all of us, even the warriors dedicated to defending America. My thoughts and prayers are with the Thacker family and all who counted Petty Officer Thacker as a friend or loved one. We honor his life and service in uniform, and pledge to keep this proud son of Arkansas’s legacy alive in the years to come,” Boozman said.

“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Chief Petty Officer Charles Thacker, Jr. His service to the country has earned my utmost gratitude, and my deepest condolences go to his family, friends, and crewmates,” Cotton said.

Womack said, “Today, Fort Smith and the State of Arkansas mourn the passing of a brave patriot and sailor. Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker, Jr. defended our nation and upheld his duty to serve and protect freedom. This is a great loss against an unprecedented enemy, and we must continue to amplify resources on all levels to defeat this virus and safeguard personnel. My deepest condolences go out to the Thacker family, his loved ones, and fellow service members. Though no words can heal the pain, our community sends prayers of comfort and strength during this time.”

Governor Asa Hutchinson Announces Appointments

LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson today announced the following appointments:

Judge Mark Pate, Searcy, as Circuit Judge of the Seventeenth Judicial District, Division 2.  Appointment begins May 1, 2020, and expires December 31, 2020.  Replaces Judge Robert Edwards.

Judge-elect Eric Kennedy, Des Arc, as State District Court Judge of the Twenty-Third District, Division 1.  Appointment begins May 1, 2020, and expires December 31, 2020.  Replaces Judge Mark Pate.

Judge Keith Caviness, Plainview, as District Judge for the Northern District of Yell County.  Appointment expires December 31, 2020.  Replaces Judge Carol Collins.

Blair Allen, Little Rock, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Replaces Bill Barnes.

Bob Connell, Fairfield Bay, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Replaces Bob Knight.

Molly Jackson, Blytheville, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Replaces Cindy Smith.

Mike Wilson, Little Rock, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Reappointment.

Amy Arnone, Cabot, to the State Council for the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. Appointment expires August 15, 2022. Replaces Ronald Harder.

Donald Morton, Jr., Des Arc, to the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Joy Blankenship, Pine Bluff, to the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2027. Reappointment.

Steven Blackwood, Little Rock, to the Department of Human Services State Institutional System Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces Nelson Driver.

Timothy Atkinson, White Hall, to the Arkansas State Board of Athletic Training.  Appointment expires January 14, 2023.  Reappointment.

Joe Mounts, Ozark, to the Technology Equipment Revolving Loan Fund Committee. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces Scott Jones.

Mary Jean Campo, Hot Springs, to the Technology Equipment Revolving Loan Fund Committee. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces April Hamilton.

Allen Trammell, Alexander, to the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board. Appointment expires January 26, 2022. Reappointment. 

William McBride, Benton, to the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board. Appointment expires January 26, 2022. Reappointment. 

Daniel Burkhead, Benton, to the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board. Appointment expires January 26, 2022. Replaces Wayne Pace.

Mark Taylor, Hector, to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission. Appointment expires June 30, 2020. Replaces Deb Tackett.

Tiffany Sharp, Brookland, to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Replaces Ava Coleman.

Dr. Cheri Smith, Searcy, to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces Glenda Ezell.

Matthew Hyneman, Jonesboro, to the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee. Appointment expires July 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Pace Hindsley, Marvell, to the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee. Appointment expires July 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Scott Bray, Alexander, to the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee. Appointment expires July 1, 2020. Replaces Butch Calhoun.

Ed Vance, Benton, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Sandra Jackson, Maumelle, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2022. Reappointment. 

Warner Smith, Smackover, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2022. Reappointment.

Tyler Steele, Bentonville, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2023. New Position.

Terrance Scott, Cotton Plant, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Replaces Jackie Prince.

Blake Swears, Carlisle, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Kenneth Clark, Newport, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Tony Schwarz, Weiner, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

David Wallace, Jr., Crawfordsville, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Dr. Charles Bower, Springdale, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2022. Reappointment. 

Dr. Hillary Jones, Jonesboro, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2023. Replaces Nannette Nicholson. 

Dr. Jennifer Rigsby, Maumelle, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2022. Reappointment. 

Dr. Rachel Glade, Fayetteville, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2023. Replaces Judith Eddington.

Dr. Tammy Vanover, Little Rock, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2023. Reappointment. 

Una Carroll, North Little Rock, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2022. Reappointment.

Dr. Cassondra Williams-Stokes, Little Rock, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Reappointment. 

Thomas Connell, Hope, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Reappointment. 

Dewey Graves, Jonesboro, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Reappointment. 

Shannon Davis, Monette, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Replaces Ezell Breedlove.

Kimberly Gatewood, Little Rock, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. New Position.

Darnell Rice, Mabelvale, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Replaces Worthie Springer, III.

Paul Hastings, Little Rock, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2021. Reappointment. 

Tom Jones, Little Rock, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2020. Reappointment. 

Todd Gadberry, Royal, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2022. Reappointment. 

Clay Crump, Kirby, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2021. Reappointment. 

Amanda Furgerson, Damascus, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2022. Replaces Kevin Lorenz. 

Scott Bramlett, Clinton, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2020. Replaces Scott Landers. 

Christopher Sanborn, Mountain Home, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2021. Reappointment.

Dr. Toby Vancil, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Replaces James Meserow.

Daphne Gaulden, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2021. Replaces Louise Scott.

Jonathan Wilson, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Replaces Carole Garner.

Dr. Rhonda Mattox, Roland, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2022. Replaces William Greenfield.

Dr. Jennifer Redmond-Knight, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2020. Replaces Wonder Lowe. 

Dr. Pebbles Fagan, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2020. Replaces Stephen Copley.

Shelly Brown, Austin, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2021. Replaces Edward Rhodes.

Jerri Clark, Cabot, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Chelsea Conway, Smithville, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2020. Replaces Dr. J. David Busby.

Ruthie Johnson, Pine Bluff, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Replaces Jerry Lewis.

UA Cossatot’s Criminal Justice Degree Proves to be Affordable

Each year, Online U publishes its “Most Affordable Online College Rankings List,” which represents the most affordable online degrees in the country across a variety of popular subjects. UA Cossatot’s Criminal Justice degree is listed as its twelfth most affordable Criminal Justice online degree in the nation at the associate degree level for 2020.

UA Cossatot’s tuition rate is $74 per credit hour. The estimated cost for tuition and fees for a full-time criminal justice student at UA Cossatot is $1,548 a semester. The college’s Professional Studies department offers an Associate of Science and a Technical Certificate in Criminal Justice.

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice degree is a transferrable degree that allows students to further their education after graduating. Completion of the associate’s degree can also improve overall employability. The Criminal Justice Technical Certificate prepares students for entry-level positions in the field of criminal justice as a dispatcher or a jailor.

Hector Cortez is a UA Cossatot Campus Police Officer and is also a student in the Criminal Justice program at the college. Hector said, “I have been interested in the criminal justice field since I was in junior high. After graduating from high school, I decided to apply at the Howard County Sheriff’s Department. I was given a job as a jailer and as a dispatcher. I couldn’t become a police officer until I turned 21. I decided to take classes at UA Cossatot while I worked because the college had a degree program for criminal justice, and I could take all of my classes online. Even though the classes were online, my instructors would work with me one-on-one, and they would respond to my questions within minutes!”

Hector added, “Taking classes at UA Cossatot has allowed me to get a great education in criminal justice. Some people want to go further into the criminal justice field, and more departments are now requiring applicants to have degrees or years of experience. Taking classes at UA Cossatot is inexpensive, and it allows people to check off the degree part of the requirement to apply.”

Officer Cortez went on to say, “I am now an employee of the college, and I can honestly say if criminal justice is your career goal, UA Cossatot is the place to help you achieve it.”

UA Cossatot is offering an Introduction to Criminal Justice class this summer, and this fall for anyone interested in this career field.

To view more information on Online U’s website, please visit www.onlineu.org. For any questions about UA Cossatot’s Criminal Justice program, please contact Barbara Lacefield at blacefield@cccua.edu.

OnlineU: Rankings of the Most Affordable Online Colleges

OnlineU provides unbiased rankings based on the factors you care about most - affordability, accessibility, and quality - to help you find the best match. Most Affordable Colleges Each year, we publish our Most Affordable Online College Rankings, which represent the most affordable online degrees in the country across a variety of popular subjects.

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Thursday (04.16.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Thursday, April 16, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

Governor Hutchinson Announces CMS Approval of Additional Pay For Eligible LTSS Direct Care Workers Due to COVID-19 Emergency

LITTLE ROCK – Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved Arkansas’s request to use Medicaid funds to temporarily increase the weekly income of long-term services and supports (LTSS) direct-care workers during the COVID-19 public health emergency, Governor Asa Hutchinson announced at a news conference today.

On April 8, the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) submitted an emergency state plan amendment and two “Appendix K” amendments to cover services provided under the State Plan and agencies in non-institutional settings for people who get care in their homes and communities. With approval from CMS, DHS will be able to make payments retroactive to April 5, 2020.

“CMS’s approval of this request is welcome news for LTSS direct-care workers, who are working long hours to see that our most vulnerable Arkansans are well-cared for during this public health emergency,” Governor Hutchinson said today. “Not only will these funds help ensure continuity of care, the extra pay will alleviate some of the financial stress for the caregivers, who are selflessly serving in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in private homes at increased risk to their own health.”

The additional care continuity pay will go to eligible non-physician direct-care workers employed by or contracted with institutional setting providers, such as nursing homes, intermediate care facilities, and assisted living facilities; and agencies in non-institutional settings for people who receive care in their homes and communities. Eligible workers include those who are continuing to provide face-to-face services to this population and include:

• Registered Nurses

• Licensed practical nurses

• Certified nurse aides

• Personal care aides assisting with activities of daily living under the supervision of a nurse or therapist

• Home health aides assisting with activities of daily living under the supervision of a nurse or therapist

• Nursing assistive personnel

• Direct care workers providing services under home and community-based waiver

• Intermediate Care Facility direct care staff including those that work for a state-run Human Development Center

• Assisted Living direct care staff members

• Hospice service direct care workers

• Respiratory therapists

The weekly care continuity initiative payments are available to direct care workers as follows:

• A) work 20-39 hours per week--$125.00

• B) work 40+ hours per week--$250.00

• C) work a regularly planned split shift schedule that overlap weeks that equal or exceed 150 hours per month, not including overtime--$250.00/week

If a client has tested positive for COVID-19, the direct care workers in that facility or home and community-based setting, will receive an enhanced payment as follows:

• A) work 1-19 hours per week--$125.00

• B) work 20-39 hours per week--$250.00

• C) work 40+ hours per week--$500.00

• D) work a regularly planned split shift schedule that overlap weeks that equal or exceed 150 hours per month, not including overtime--$500.00/week

The payments will be made to a facility or agency providers over a period of eight (8) weeks beginning the week of April 5, 2020 and ending May 30, 2020. The providers will pass the full net value (gross amount minus applicable taxes) of the payments to the eligible direct care workers.

The payments will be available to Medicaid-enrolled providers who employ or contract with LTSS direct care workers. This includes nursing homes, ARChoices providers, Personal Care providers, Area Agencies on Aging, Assisted Living Facilities, Hospice providers, CES waiver providers for supported living services, and agencies in non-institutional settings for people who get care in their homes and communities.

“Medicaid is the largest payer source of LTSS, which is why this sector was the focus of this particular part of the waiver,” said DHS Secretary Cindy Gillespie. “In other sectors, especially hospitals and hospital-based providers, Medicaid generally represents the smallest percentage of payment and federal legislation is providing significant targeted relief for hospitals."

Governor Hutchinson has also directed that DHS develop a similar care continuity payment package for non-physician direct care workers in hospital settings that can be presented to the state task force overseeing COVID-19- specific funding that the still will receive.

DHS will send instructions to the providers on how to submit a claim on behalf of their eligible workers. DHS will update its providers as the situation evolves.

Governor’s Office Media Contact: Press Shop (press@governor.arkansas.gov)
DHS Media Contact: Amy Webb, Chief of Communications (Amy.Webb@dhs.arkansas.gov)

If you are not a member of the media and have questions or concerns about COVID-19, you can contact the Arkansas Department of Health at 1-800-803-7847 or visit ar.gov/covid.

COVID-19 Information for Arkansas

Updates from Governor Hutchinson Our state agencies are developing guidance and resources for Arkansans to stay healthy and make informed choices for themselves and their families. These agencies will continue to update their websites with the most up-to-date information on COVID-19.

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Wednesday (04.15.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Wednesday, April 15, at 1:30 p.m. regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Tuesday (04.14.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Tuesday, April 14, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

The 2020 Fiscal Session is now underway.

As we did in the recent special session, the House met at the Jack Stephens Arena at UALR to provide enough space for social distancing. We will continue to meet at that venue next week.

On the opening day of the session, the Governor told the General Assembly our state’s economy is not slowing down, but rather is on pause out of necessity.

The Governor is asking the General Assembly to cut $205 million from the previous balanced budget proposal presented before the pandemic. We intend to accomplish this while still fulfilling our obligations to education, public safety, and Medicaid.

While the legislature works on the state budget, we recognize many of you are struggling with your personal budget.

More than 132,000 unemployment claims have been processed in Arkansas. Arkansans who filed unemployment claims before March 28 should have received compensation by now. Those who filed before April 4 should receive payment this Monday.

Regular unemployment benefits now include an additional $600 weekly benefit payment for any workers eligible for state or federal unemployment insurance. There is no need to apply for this, these payments will automatically be issued, along with your regular UI benefit.

However, we know many other Arkansans are experiencing difficulty in processing claims and getting through the hotline. On Friday, the Joint Budget Committee passed an amendment for additional funding for extra help and overtime for the agency overseeing the unemployment hotline

If you are experiencing delays in filing your claim online or by phone, please understand that your claim will be processed and backdated. If eligible, you will receive your benefits based on your date of separation from your employment.

To assist the local Department of Workforce offices around the state with the massive volume of claims and questions, the Department of Commerce is utilizing almost 80 staff from the DWS central office and other Commerce staff and volunteers to answer the hotline calls and to file claims. They will continue to train available state employees. They are also evaluating the availability of an external call center. The external call center could provide a way for hours to be extended.

The website, www.ezarc.adws.arkansas.gov is available to process applications Sunday-Saturday from 6 am to 6 pm.
The hotline numbers 1-844-908-2178 or 501-534-6304 accept calls Monday – Friday, 8 am-3:30 pm.

ADWS EZARC - Welcome to EZARC

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 6:00AM - 6:00PMSaturday: 6:00AM - 6:00PMSunday: 6:00AM - 6:00PM This system is not compatible with mobile devices using older browsers. This site operates best with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher or Mozilla Firefox 2.0 or higher.

We have posted a link to frequently asked questions about unemployment on our website

The House will convene again on Wednesday at 11 am. Schedules and live stream information can also be found on our website.

Visit www.arkansashouse.org

Home - Arkansas House of Representatives

ARGIRLSLEAD #ARGIRLSLEAD is a movement started by women serving in the Arkansas House. Each of them have a unique story to share about their journey on the road to their current leadership position. Kids In The House Who says civics can't be fun?

Governor Hutchinson Creates Committee To Advise on State’s Post-Peak Response to COVID-19

LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson today announced the formation of the Governor’s Medical Advisory Committee for Post-Peak COVID-19 Response. The committee, established by Executive Order 20-17, will identify the criteria to guide public health strategy after Arkansas reaches the peak of COVID-19 cases.

The committee will examine testing capabilities and social distancing protocols and make any recommendations necessary to avoid a resurgence of COVID-19. Dr. Nathaniel Smith, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), will serve as the committee chairman.

Members of the Governor’s Medical Advisory Committee for Post-Peak COVID-19 Response are:

• Dr. Nathaniel Smith – Secretary of ADH (Chair)

• Dr. Jose Romero – ADH Chief Medical Officer and Chief of Pediatric Infectious Disease at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)/Arkansas Children’s Hospital

• Dr. Naveen Patil – ADH Medical Director for Infectious Disease

• Dr. Jennifer Dillaha – ADH State Epidemiologist

• Dr. Austin Porter – ADH Deputy Chief Science Officer and Assistant Professor at the UAMS College of Public Health

• Dr. Greg Bledsoe – Surgeon General of Arkansas

• Dr. Jerrilyn Jones – ADH Medical Director for Preparedness and Response and Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at UAMS

• Dr. Sam Greenfield – ADH Medical Director for Family Health and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UAMS

The committee will provide its first briefing to the Governor later this week.

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Monday (04.13.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Monday, April 13, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

Governor and First Lady's Easter Message to Arkansans

Governor Asa Hutchinson and First Lady Susan Hutchinson deliver an Easter greeting for all Arkansans.

Lt. Governor Griffin Says Abortion Clinics Should Follow Governor's Directive and Cease Procedures During Pandemic

LITTLE ROCK – Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin issued the following statement regarding the noncompliance of abortion clinics with Governor Asa Hutchinson's directive to cease elective procedures during the public health crisis. Lt. Governor Tim Griffin issued the following statement:

"As I indicated at my press conference Wednesday, abortion clinics should cease procedures. I am pro-life, but abortion rights advocates describe the decision to abort as a 'choice.’ That, by definition, means we can all agree that abortion procedures are elective. Abortion procedures should not be occurring in Arkansas, and I applaud the Health Department's letter ordering them to cease and desist."

Transcript of the press conference on Wednesday, April 8, 2020:

Reporter: "In Texas they’re trying to outlaw abortions. ...The courts have said women’s rights, constitutional rights, can be suspended due to the emergency declaration. Do you think Arkansas should ban abortion during this public health emergency."

Griffin: "Well, the governor has already put out through the Department of Health some very specific guidance on what health care providers should and should not be doing, what they can be doing, in terms of elective surgeries, what’s essential, what’s non essential. That guidance was put out , I believe, last week and it specifically mentions in that guidance, abortion clinics. So I can’t speak for the governor but my understanding is, based on the guidance of the Department of Health, that the abortion clinics should not be operating under the current guidance."

Reporter: "And do you believe that’s how it should be?"

Griffin: "Sure, yes."

Additional information:

Cease and desist letter from the Arkansas Department of Health to abortion clinic.

Arkansas Department of Health Elective Procedures Directive (letter to healthcare facilities)

Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address | The First Line of Defense Against COVID-19

LITTLE ROCK – Today I’d like to talk about the professionals who are on the front lines at the hospitals and clinics all over Arkansas who are treating our COVID-19 patients and doing the critically important testing work.

These nurses, nursing assistants, respiratory therapists, and doctors are our first line of defense against COVID-19. They are putting their lives at risk in the same way that firefighters do when they run into a burning building. During this pandemic, these professionals have been reporting to work because they care for people and that is their life calling.

At least 158 health care providers have tested positive for COVID-19. We hope that they recover quickly.

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that sets up in the lungs and requires the skills of a pulmonologist and a respiratory therapist if ventilator treatment is necessary.

A Little Rock registered respiratory therapist has described the effect of COVID-19 on the lungs as similar to the struggle to breathe if you climbed Mount Everest without oxygen.

The respiratory therapists measure, assess, and evaluate peak airway pressure, mean airway pressure, compliance, resistance, and monitor the pulmonary infection. The symptoms of COVID-19 are especially severe and hard to control.

While COVID-19 remains somewhat of a mystery killer, I am encouraged by the numbers we see at the present in Arkansas. We are seeing these positive signs because of the way Arkansans have adapted to the temporary limitations we have imposed on our daily lives.

The best way to help our front-line professionals is to continue to wash your hands, keep your distance, and stay at home if at all possible. If you have to get out, wear a mask to protect others. The more we practice these preventative measures, the sooner we will move past this pandemic.

Thanks to everyone who has risen to the challenge, from the people who are taking samples at drive-through testing sites in our clinics, to the professionals in the emergency rooms and intensive care units. Our prayers are with you.

I also wanted to mention the importance of this weekend since we celebrate both Passover and Easter. For me, Easter has always meant getting together for church and with family. This week, the First Lady and I will celebrate Easter away from the family and by watching the service on the Internet. It is important that we resist the temptation to get together because that risks the spread of the virus. Let’s get through this so that we will have many more Easters to celebrate in the future.

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Friday (04.10.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Friday, April 10, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Thursday (04.09.20) 1:30PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Thursday, April 9, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)

Sevier & Howard Counties Cooperative Extension Services Still on the Job

In Sevier and Howard County, the Cooperative Extension Service is still on the job
Fast Facts:
Agents with the Cooperative Extension Service continue to serve Arkansans during pandemic
Agents available through phone, email and Internet communication platforms
Many resources available online for farms, families and communities at www.uaex.edu and www.uaex.edu/covid19

De Queen, Ark. — The Cooperative Extension Service has been serving the people of Arkansas, from agricultural communities in rural areas to school children in the cities, for more than 100 years, through good times and bad. Our current era, in which we all face serious health risks from the COVID-19 virus, is no different.
Minimizing the effects of this virus, which is unusually contagious and particularly lethal to members of our community who are elderly or immunosuppressed, depends largely on “social distancing” and otherwise limiting close contact. But that doesn’t mean we, as cooperative extension employees, aren’t still here to support our communities in all the ways we always have been.
Whether your needs are agricultural, financial, dietary or educational, our office staff are still here to offer the best in unbiased, research-based knowledge. We are still fundamentally engaged in supporting community and economic development, helping farmers make the best choices for their crops and helping families make the best use of their resources.
Our staff are as available and ready to work as they’ve always been. Our office is still open, just come to the side door and knock or call. While public health recommendations may limit in-person contact, we are also increasingly available through online venues, including webinars and internet-based teleconferencing. And of course, we’re still ready to answer questions and make recommendations by phone.
If you haven’t visited our website in a while, we recommend you take a look. Whether you need to locate your local agent, download one of our invaluable publications, or read the latest in agricultural reporting, www.uaex.edu is a vast resource for Arkansans. We also have a wealth of resources related to coping with COVID-19 at www.uaex.edu/covid19.
The bottom line is, we’re still on the job. And we want to help you be, too.
To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact the Sevier County Cooperative Extension Service office at (870) 584-3013 or Howard County Extension Office at 870-845-7517. Visit the website www.uaex.edu. Follow us on Twitter at @UAEX_edu.

University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service

Protect you and your family during the COVID-19 outbreak by practicing proper hand washing techniques. Wet your hands with clean running water (warm or cold) and apply soap. Rub your hands together to make a lather and scrub them well; be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.