Another round of severe weather is possible over the region tonight through Tuesday morning. The latest forecast indicates that an overnight complex of thunderstorms may track across the state, posing a threat for large hail early in the overnight period, with the primary hazard transitioning to damaging winds.
Additionally, there could be some locally heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding and aggravate existing flooding issues along some area rivers.
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 4
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 16
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 5
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 4
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 1
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 1
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 4
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 14
Active Confirmed Cases: 10
Active Probable Cases: 4
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 5
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 3
In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 240 new cases; 1,961 active cases; 166 hospitalized, which is up 1 from Wednesday; 29 on ventilators, which is up 2 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 9, for a total of 5,735; a total of 335,529 cases; PCR tests, 4,135; antigen tests, 973.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 35; Pulaski, 33; and Washington, 22.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
“Our vaccine numbers were lower today than last week. We have plenty of doses across the state, and all Arkansans 16 and older are eligible. Check the Department of Health website or call 1-800-985-6030 if you need assistance finding a location to get vaccinated.”
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
The House is now in an extended recess. We will return in the fall to address redistricting.
House members returned to the chamber shortly after midnight to concur in an amendment to HB1957.
HB1957 states all acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations of the United States Government that were enacted on or after January 1, 2021, that infringe on the people's right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Arkansas Constitution, Article 2, § 5, are invalid in this state, shall not be recognized by this state, are specifically rejected by this state, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this state. The amendment helped to clarify exceptions.
On Tuesday, the House passed the following:
SJR14- This is a proposed constitutional amendment titled the “Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment”. It state government may burden a person's freedom of religion only if the government demonstrates that application of the burden to the person is in furtherance of a compelling government interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling government interest.
SB691-This bill states that any advertisement using the image of an elected official appearing in any newspaper, television, radio, or electronic medium which is paid by taxpayer funds shall clearly contain the words “Paid advertisement” or “paid ad” and the name of the state entity, county, or constitutional officer that paid for the ad.
SB336-This bill creates an exemption from the sales and use tax for coins, currency, and bullion.
SB484-This bill states that a nonresident individual who is paid a salary, lump sum payment, or any other form of payment that encompasses work performed both inside and outside of Arkansas shall pay Arkansas income tax only on the portion of the individual's income that reasonably can be allocated to work performed in Arkansas.
SB693-This bill would abolish the state and public school life and health insurance board and transfer the duties to the state board of finance.
We will continue to update you during the interim.
The Little River County Farmer's Market is hosting a baked potato dinner with smoked chicken and queso to celebrate the opening of the 2021 season on May 3rd in Ashdown and May 4th in Foreman. The Skills class in Ashdown is selling tickets and the EAST class in Foreman is selling tickets. Those classes will receive funds based on their ticket sales.
People can also order potatoes and pick up and pay for them at the Farmers Market beginning at 4 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. We need to order the correct number of potatoes so we really need advance orders. If anyone would like to use their debit card, the Farmers Market has a Venmo account. Please use @lrcfm to pay that way.
If you have any questions, please call or text 870-648-6484. Thank you!
Vickie Williamson
Economic Development Director
SUMMER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY!
Husqvarna, L&G facility, is currently accepting high school and college student applications for employment during the summer months on second shift. Pay range $15.25- $17.00 per hour. Students must meet the minimum age requirement.
When applying, write "SUMMER" at the top of the application.
Students can apply online through Facebook and/or Indeed. If they want to come in person we are having our Student Program Open House/Job Fair next Saturday, May 8th, from 10:00 – 12:00 p.m. They will get a plant tour, and we will have refreshments for them while they fill out their application.
Interested applicants may apply at:
Husqvarna
1 Poulan Drive
Nashville, AR
...FLASH FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH THIS AFTERNOON... The Flash Flood Watch continues for * Portions of southwest Arkansas...southeast Oklahoma and northeast Texas, including the following areas, in southwest Arkansas, Howard, Little River and Sevier. In southeast Oklahoma, McCurtain. In northeast Texas, Bowie, Franklin, Red River and Titus. * Through this afternoon * Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated higher amounts possible. * Flooding may occur in urban and poor drainage areas. Heavy rainfall may also cause flooding of creeks, streams, and rivers.
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 0
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 4
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 15
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 4
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 3
In its Wednesday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 291 new cases; 1,908 active cases; 165 hospitalized, which is up 8 from Tuesday; 27 on ventilators, which is up 1 from Tuesday; deaths added today, 1, for a total of 5,726; a total of 335,289 cases; PCR tests, 4,677; antigen tests, 1,055.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Washington, 43; Benton, 34; and Pulaski, 28.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
“Today's report shows lower active cases and fewer new cases compared to last week. Our vaccination efforts continue as we have doses of all three vaccines available in every county. These vaccines are safe, effective, and offer us the best path forward toward the end of this pandemic.”
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Showers and isolated thunderstorms will return to portions of the region today, generally north of the Interstate 30 corridor near a stationary cool front. By this evening, the front will start to slowly push southeastward, bringing increased rain chances to Southeast Oklahoma, adjacent southwest Arkansas, and portions of East Texas. Although the overall threat for severe weather is limited, the Storm Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk for these same general areas, with a Slight Risk for the extreme western sections of McCurtain County Oklahoma and Red River County in Texas. Damaging winds and large hail are the main threats. Also, these same locations could see locally heavy rainfall. Localized amounts up to 3 inches will be possible, which could lead to a some isolated flash flooding. In addition to the rain, expect winds to increase today from the south to near 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. A Lake Wind Advisory is in effect from 9 AM to 7 PM this evening, as strong winds will create hazardous conditions on area waterways.
Rain chances will continue to spread across the entire area, as a cool front slowly moves across the region Thursday into Friday morning. Although the overall threat for severe weather is limited, a few strong thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, with locally heavy rainfall possible. Some slightly cooler and drier air will filter into the area in wake of the front, but rain chances will return for the weekend, as an upper level trough moves across the region.
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 0
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 5
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 5
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 14
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 3
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 1
In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 63 new cases; 1,805 active cases; 170 hospitalized, which is up 18 from Sunday; 27 on ventilators, which is up 3 from Sunday; deaths added today, 2, for a total of 5,720; a total of 334,769 cases; PCR tests, 1,158; antigen tests, 106.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 12; Craighead, 7; and Pulaski and Washington with 6 each.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
“We have resumed administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine today. This is great news, and it will allow us to increase the number of doses administered in the coming days and weeks. If you haven't gotten vaccinated, schedule your appointment today.”
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
This week, the Joint Budget Committee advanced two bills outlining the proposed budget for the next fiscal year.
The Revenue Stabilization Act prioritizes and categorizes state spending. It is typically one of the last bills passed every session. This year, the RSA is outlined in two identical bills SB702 and HB1949.
The proposal disburses $5.84 billion in general revenue. While fully funding our obligations, it decreases overall state spending by $50 million.
Proposed increases can be found in Medicaid, corrections, and State Police. The budget also includes the largest percentage increase in educational adequacy in 15 years.
The state’s long-term reserve fund is expected to reach over $700 million by the end of this fiscal year. This savings helps the state to secure lower interest rates and bond ratings.
This week, the House also passed a bill to reduce the sales tax from 6.5% to 3.5% on used cars priced from $4,000-$10,000.
HB1912 passed both chambers and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.
Other tax measures passing the House this week include HB1719 and HB1456.
HB1719 creates the Reboot Pilot Program. It would provide income tax credits for employers who hire former felony offenders who were released from his or her first term of incarceration in the last year. The maximum amount of this credit is $3,000.
HB1456 creates an income tax in an amount equal to 50% of an eligible railroad track maintenance expenditures. The maximum amount of the credit is $5,000 per mile of track.
On Thursday, the House voted in favor of SJR10. This is a proposed constitutional amendment which, if approved by voters, would allow the General Assembly to call a special session upon the submission of a written proclamation with signatures from at least 2/3 of both the House and Senate membership. Currently, only the Governor can call for a special session.
The House also voted in favor of HR1048. This resolution would allow the House to consider a third proposed constitutional amendment, SJR14, the Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment.
The House previously passed HJR1005 would require statewide ballot initiatives to receive 60% of the vote before becoming law.
Proposed constitutional amendments approved by the General Assembly will be on the November 2022 ballot.
The House expects to enter an extended recess beginning Tuesday, April 27, and return in the fall to address congressional redistricting. The Governor has also indicated he intends to call a special session in the fall to address additional tax cuts.
You can find all House agendas and links to live streams at www.arkansashouse.org.
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 0
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 5
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 5
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 15
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 3
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 5
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 1
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 1
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 5
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 15
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 3
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 5
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 5
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 1
In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 161 new cases; 1,923 active cases; 171 hospitalized, which is down 4 from Wednesday; 22 on ventilators, which is down 2 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 3, for a total of 5,711; a total of 334,222 cases; PCR tests, 4,672; antigen tests, 965.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 22; Benton, 13; and Craighead and Faulkner with 9 each.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
“Today's report shows a decline in new cases compared to last week and a slight decrease in active cases from yesterday. As we vaccinated the 1 millionth Arkansan today, around one-third of our population has received at least one dose. These are good numbers, but we can do better. Do your part by getting your vaccine as soon as possible.”
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Registration for summer and fall classes is underway at UA Cossatot. We offer a wide range of technical programs at UAC including automotive technology, diesel technology, and welding. For our complete catalog of classes, visit: www.cccua.edu
With a vote of 82-9, the House voted in favor of SJR10. This is a proposed constitutional amendment which, if approved by voters, would allow the General Assembly to call a special session upon the submission of a written proclamation with signatures from at least 2/3 of both the House and Senate membership. Currently, only the Governor can call for a special session.
The House also voted in favor of HR1048. This resolution would allow the House to consider a third proposed constitutional amendment, SJR14, the Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment.
The House also passed the following bills on Thursday:
HB1926-This bill defines virtual currency under Arkansas Code. It also defines rights of ownership and the process for adverse claims against the currency.
HB1944-This bill provides definitions of advanced plastic recycling technologies in an effort to help facilitate the growth and investment of these facilities.
SB181-This bill amends the Sales Tax Holiday to exempt certain electronic devices from sales tax during the first weekend in August.
SB513-This bill amends the law concerning the suspension or revocation of a person’s driver’s license for failure to pay a fine or failure to appear. This would allow judges to restrict a license rather than suspend to allow the defendant to drive for essential purposes.
The House will convene on Monday at 1 pm.
UA Cossatot is the recipient of a National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education (ATE) grant for its "GIS-Skilled Technicians in Agriculture-Related Sciences (GSTARS)" proposal within the College's Agriculture and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. The primary goal of the GSTARS project is to design and implement a curriculum that meets the region’s need for technician-level GIS skills in agriculture and related science industries. The $299,635 grant will create pathways for future GIS Technicians to enter the local workforce.
The National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education program supports the development of innovative approaches for educating highly skilled technicians for the industries that drive the nation’s economy. The program involves partnerships between academic institutions and industry to promote improvement in the education of science and engineering technicians at the undergraduate and secondary institution school levels.
The GSTARS program will include the integration of GIS skills into existing agriculture and science courses, the creation of a new course (Introduction to GIS in Agriculture) within the agriculture department, and the addition of a Certification of Proficiency in GIS Technology through the agriculture program. Students will use applications of analysis of spatial data using ESRI’s ArcGIS tools in data collection, remote sensing, map design, and spatial analysis.
The GSTARS team includes agriculture faculty and primary investigator (PI), Kelli Harris; co-PI’s Robert Guillory, science faculty, and, Crystal Sims, Chair of the Division of General Education; and external
evaluators, The New Growth Group. New Growth is an evaluation and analytics firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, specializing in workforce development. Several industry representatives will also serve on the program's advisory board to assist in curriculum development and provide important career insight to students enrolled in this program. Some of the local employers represented on the board include Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Arkansas Forestry Division.
“This grant will offer an innovative pathway for students pursuing careers in agriculture and science, and it will provide valuable skills in emerging technology. These skills are crucial to the success of our students and our economy. We are excited to help these students achieve their dreams and support a vibrant, high-tech workforce in southwest Arkansas" said GSTARS team leader and agriculture faculty, Kelli Harris.
Funding will begin in July 2021 and will enable the UA Cossatot team to receive training and develop GIS curriculum that will include exploring mapped data; learning to utilize remote sensing technologies; recording, analyzing, and presenting spatial data using GIS analysis tools from ESRI ArcGIS; and creating maps, images and apps to communicate spatial data. As a step towards diversifying the workforce, UA Cossatot’s collaboration with the public schools will place special emphasis on recruiting underrepresented minority students in skilled technician positions.
To learn more about this grant, contact kharris@cccua.edu. ###
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 3
Active Confirmed Cases: 1
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 5
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 1
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 1
In its Wednesday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 352 new cases; 1,943 active cases; 175 hospitalized, which is down 2 from Tuesday; 24 on ventilators, which is unchanged from Tuesday; deaths added today, 2, for a total of 5,708; a total of 334,061cases; PCR tests, 4,150; antigen tests, 1,028.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Washington, 44; Benton, 43; and Pulaski, 39.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
“The increase in new cases from today's report is a serious reminder of the importance to get vaccinated. It is also a reminder that the virus is still here along with the more contagious variants. Our best defense is the vaccine. We have plenty of doses available, so if you're 16 and older, schedule your appointment today.”
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2
Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 3
Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0
Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 1
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson provided today's update on Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 59 new cases; 1,789 active cases; 164 hospitalized, which is up 3 from Sunday; 22 on ventilators, which is up 1 from Sunday; deaths added today, 5, for a total of 5,699; a total of 333,511 cases; PCR tests, 1,553; antigen tests, 200.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 16; Benton, 5; and Garland and Washington with 4 each.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
“Today we saw fewer new cases with more testing than this time last week. The increase in vaccine doses was larger this week than last Monday. Our combined efforts are keeping the numbers low, but we will lose momentum if we do not increase our vaccination numbers.”
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
On Thursday, the House advanced a proposed constitutional amendment. HJR1005 would require statewide ballot initiatives to receive 60% of the vote before becoming law. If approved by the Senate, HJR1005 would be placed on the ballot in November of 2022.
The House also passed the following:
HB1391-This bill amends the law concerning consumer protection of seniors from predatory practices. It states that if a financial services provider has reasonable cause to suspect that financial exploitation may have occurred or is being attempted, the financial services provider may refuse or delay the execution of a financial transaction.
HB1012-This bill would require a buyer of a used catalytic converter other than a scrap metal recycler to file an electronic record of the used catalytic converter purchase.
SB298-This bill is titled the Arkansas Sovereignty Act of 2021. It states that all acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations of the United States Government that infringe on the people's right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Arkansas Constitution are invalid in this state and shall not be recognized.
SB59-This bill states that a personal firearm, a firearms accessory, or ammunition that is manufactured commercially or privately in Arkansas and that remains within the borders of Arkansas is not subject to federal law or federal regulation.
SB536-This bill establishes the Buffalo River Conservation Committee.
The House will convene on Monday at 1 pm.