Arkansas News

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Governor’s Working Group To Expand COVID-19 Testing Capacity Will Meet for First Time Today

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LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has created the Governor’s COVID-19 Testing Working Group to make recommendations to expand the capacity and performance of COVID-19 testing in the state, the Governor announced at a news conference today. The working group will meet virtually for the first time at 3 p.m. today.

“Arkansas’s ability to conduct adequate diagnostic and surveillance testing will affect the state’s public-health strategy and economic-recovery efforts after Arkansas reaches its peak number of COVID-19 cases,” Governor Hutchinson said. “As we prepare to shift Arkansas’s economy out of low gear, it is important for us to have more comprehensive information about the spread of COVID-19 in the state.”

The working group will include senior representatives of the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Baptist Health of Arkansas, and Arkansas Children’s. These leaders will examine the state’s supply of testing equipment and make recommendations to maintain adequate testing capabilities and conduct surveillance testing across the state.

Members of the Governor’s COVID-19 Testing Working Group are:

  • Dr. Nathaniel Smith, ADH

  • Dr. Glen Baker, ADH

  • Dr. Naveen Patil, ADH

  • Dr. Katie Seely, ADH

  • Dr. Jennifer Hunt, UAMS

  • Dr. Jose Romero, ADH, UAMS, Arkansas Children’s

  • Dr. Atul Kothari, ADH, UAMS

  • Mr. Robin Mitchell, Arkansas Children’s

  • Dr. Bobby Boyanton, Arkansas Children’s 

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Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

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While we are facing difficult and uncertain times, Arkansans should know that essential services in state government will continue.

This week during the 2020 Fiscal Session, the Arkansas General Assembly passed a balanced budget for the next fiscal year prioritizing funding for education, health care, and public safety.

The 2021 Fiscal Year begins July 1.

The Revenue Stabilization Act passed this week prioritizes $5.9 billion in spending for the next fiscal year. By law, the RSA prioritizes spending in categories with Category A spending first. This year’s RSA creates 5 categories: A, A1, B, C, and D.

Category A includes $5.3 billion in funding. Every state agency receives the majority of funding in Category A. This category also includes $60 million to the Restricted Reserve Fund which can be accessed for any urgent or unforeseen funding needs.

Category A1 includes $181.4 in funding for elementary and secondary education, Medicaid, and the Department of Correction to ensure these essential services are fully funded.

The total funding outlined in categories A, A1, B, and C total $5.67 billion. This is equal to the amount of revenue currently forecasted.

Due to the economic downturn created by the pandemic, the Department of Finance and Administration recently reduced the 2021 forecast for net general revenue available by $205.9 million.

To accommodate that reduction, $212 million of the budget is listed in Category D. Should the economy bounce back above the current forecast, the funds would be distributed as outlined in that category.

The Governor is reviewing guidance from medical experts on how to safety to re-engage businesses after Arkansas sees a decline in COVID-19 cases. The peak is expected around May 4. We do not anticipate our economy will slow down, but rather that we are on pause.

The House will reconvene on Friday, April 24 at noon to address any unfinished business and officially adjourn the 2020 Fiscal Session Sine Die.

You can watch live and recorded sessions of the House on our website. We have also posted a link to the legislation outlining next year’s budget. 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?

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Governor Hutchinson Announces New Economic Recovery Task Force

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LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has created the Governor’s Economic Recovery Task Force to develop an industry-specific strategy and make recommendations to the Governor for Arkansas’s economic recovery from the effects of COVID-19, the Governor announced at a news conference today.

The task force, established by Executive Order 20-20, will include 27 leaders from the private sector and public agencies who will examine the impact of COVID-19 on businesses and industries in the state. The task force will recommend a strategy to the Governor for our economy to shift out of low gear consistent with public-health guidance.

On Friday, Governor Hutchinson set May 4 as the date he hopes to begin to ease restrictions in Arkansas. The task force will meet next week.

Steuart L. Walton, a business leader and philanthropist who holds degrees in business administration and law, will chair the committee.

“Steuart’s Arkansas roots run deep, and he knows and loves the state,” Governor Hutchinson said. “Steuart is engaged in the hospitality, manufacturing, and retail industries. He understands the needs of small business. He is engaged in philanthropy across Arkansas. He is the perfect choice to lead this task force to help restore our economy.”

Members of the Governor’s Economic Recovery Task Force are:

  • Steuart Walton, Runway Group (Chair)

  • Wes Ward, Department of Agriculture

  • Mike Preston, Department of Commerce

  • Stacy Hurst, Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism

  • Ted Thomas, Public Service Commission

  • Randy Zook, Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce

  • Sylvester Smith, National Federation of Independent Business

  • Joey Dean, Associated General Contractors of Arkansas

  • Annemarie Jazic, Dillard’s Inc.

  • Charlie Spakes, Arkansas Grocers and Retail Merchants Association

  • Montine McNulty, Arkansas Hospitality Association

  • Kelly Eichler, Indoor Recreational Facilities

  • Deke Whitbeck, Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation

  • Lance Taylor, Arkansas Activities Association

  • Hunter Yurachek, University of Arkansas

  • Shannon Newton, Arkansas Trucking Association

  • Charles Frazier, Rock Region METRO

  • Lorrie Trogden, Arkansas Bankers Association

  • Dr. Sonny Tucker, Arkansas Southern Baptist Convention

  • Bishop Gary Mueller, Arkansas Conference of United Methodists

  • Bishop Michael Mitchell, African Methodist Episcopal Church 12th District

  • Dr. Richard Abernathy, Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators

  • Andy Goodman, Arkansas Independent Colleges and Universities

  • Andrea Henderson, Arkansas Association of Community Colleges

  • Dr. Chuck Welch, Arkansas State University System

  • David Wroten, Arkansas Medical Society

  • Bo Ryall, Arkansas Hospital Association

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

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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.

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

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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

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UA Cossatot Summer and Fall 2020 Registration Now Open

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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.

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

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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. …

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.”

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Governor Asa Hutchinson Announces Appointments

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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.

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UA Cossatot’s Criminal Justice Degree Proves to be Affordable

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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.

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

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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.