Governor Hutchinson Announces New Economic Recovery Task Force
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
Governor Asa Hutchinson on Fox and Friends Sunday - April 19, 2020
LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Sunday (04.19.20) 1:30PM
Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media on Sunday, April 19, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)
LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update to Media Saturday (04.18.20) 1:30PM
Governor Asa Hutchinson and Dr. Nathaniel Smith, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, will provide an update to media this afternoon, Saturday, April 18, regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response. (Press play button above.)
Dr Bruce Murphy of Arkansas Heart Hospital with COVID-19 Message
Telemedicine takes Root in Sevier County with Positive Results
For the complete story, visit:
Telemedicine takes root in Sevier County with positive results
It was only a few weeks ago that the fledgling industry of telemedicine was being hailed as the future of medical care that would one day become the norm. Then came the coronavirus and covid-19 and visiting the doctor's office began to be discouraged as it was fast becoming just another opportunity to catch the virus that is taking a toll on healthcare professionals and the communities they serve.
Maurer to Assume Role of Sevier County Economic Development Director
Tiffany Maurer of De Queen has been chosen to be the new Economic Development Coordinator for Sevier County, replacing Lisa Taylor, who recently took the same job in Durant, Oklahoma.
“Tiffany’s hiring came the day before the COVID-19 outbreak in Arkansas”, according to Rural Development Authority Chair, Dr. Steve Cole, “So Tiffany has not really had a chance to get out in the public and meet people.”
Maurer comes to the position after serving more than four years in the Financial Aid department at UA Cossatot. Cole added, “What Tiffany lacks in top-level economic development experience, she more than makes up for with energy, drive, and a natural understanding of what true economic development is and means for the community”.
Maurer’s job activities have been limited by the recent COVID-19 outbreak, but she has still been busy, making key contacts with local, state and regional leaders plus helping the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce create and design the new Sevierly Strong – Stronger Together “We’re Open” campaign, the new campaign designed to let everyone know that Sevier County businesses are open for business.
“Over the next several weeks, and after the COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed, Tiffany will be gaining momentum on all of our economic development efforts to improve Sevier County and our way of life”, added Cole.
The Sevier County Economic Development position is officially recognized by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as the Economic Developer, Property Manager, and Community Editor for the county and is a collaborative effort between the Rural Development Authority, the City of De Queen, Sevier County, the De Queen Industrial Board, and UA Cossatot.
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
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.
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
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.
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
From the Office of the Chancellor
The COVID-19 outbreak continues to be the dominating presence in our daily lives and at UA Cossatot. From day one of this outbreak, we have been focused on the safety of our students, staff, and stakeholders and as we move forward, we will continue to do just that. According to most models that predict the peak of the COVID-19 outbreak for the United States, the peak in Arkansas is expected to occur around May 2nd. With this information, and input from colleagues around the state, it makes good sense for all of us at UA Cossatot to continue what we are presently doing. This means until at least May 1st, our campuses will continue to be closed to students and visitors and our employees will continue to work on campus, or from home if they are set up to do so. Those that do come to campus to work will be under strict guidance to practice social distancing and when at all possible, wear masks to protect each other.
We will continue to serve and provide all the resources our students need to be successful in their online learning environment. We do have a plan in place to take care of our hands-on, technical course students. That will occur after May 1st, providing it is safe to do so and we have the proper permissions from the UA System.
As for the summer and fall semesters, our registration is open for both semesters. We have made our entire registration process available online for the safety and convenience of our students. Our website contains all the information students need to register: https://www.cccua.edu.
Our summer term will feature ONLY online courses, including some new and innovative courses that our faculty have put together to accommodate our students.
We are planning on a full and normal fall 2020 semester.
These are unprecedented and unexplored times but we will all make it through by working together. You can always find more UA Cossatot information on Facebook (ED88 and UAC) and on our ed88radio.com and CCCUA.EDU website.
Cossatot Community College
UA Cossatot embraces diversity and is committed to improving the lives of those in our region by providing quality education, outstanding service, and relevant industry training. The University of Arkansas - Cossatot Community College offers degrees and certificates in more than two dozen fields.
Thank You,
Dr. Steve Cole
Chancellor, UA Cossatot
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.”
61% of All Courses at UA Cossatot are Textbook-Free
As summer and fall registration takes place, UA Cossatot is proud to announce that 61% of all courses do not require a textbook. Five years ago, UA Cossatot became the first two-year college in Arkansas to abandon its traditional campus bookstore and create an internal textbook rental and open educational resource (OER) program. UA Cossatot quickly became a state leader in the OER movement with faculty using more open resources than any other two-year college in Arkansas. The college also became the first in the state to join the Open Textbook Network, which elevated its use of OER.
Instead of asking students to purchase an expensive textbook, the college chooses to help students financially by offering courses that do not require a textbook at all and instead use open resources that maintain high academic quality. This move has saved UA Cossatot students over 1.6 million dollars.
UA Cossatot Director of Educational Resources and OER Specialist, Relinda Ruth said, “With the current Covid-19 situation changing the way we traditionally function, many more faculty are choosing open resources to ensure students have access to free high-quality academic resources. In the fall, the business department will be 81 % OER, and the English department will be 100 % OER, which is a major accomplishment for our college and a tremendous benefit to UA Cossatot students!”
As UA Cossatot continues to be a leader in online education, students at UA Cossatot can expect more classes to use OER, which makes higher education more affordable. A chancellor-appointed OER Board reviews all open resources to ensure the college’s high standard for academic quality continues.
For more information about UA Cossatot’s textbook rental/OER program, please contact Relinda Ruth at rruth@cccua.edu.
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.
RAMP Scholarships now Available for Summer and Fall Terms at UA Cossatot
The University of Arkansas Cossatot is pleased to announce another opportunity for students who plan to attend classes in the upcoming summer or fall term.
The Regional Advance Manufacturing Partnership (RAMP) Grant has two $500.00 scholarships available to any student who meets the scholarship requirements and plans to pursue certificates of proficiency or technical certificates in various industrial or diesel trades coursework.
Students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in General Technology in the areas of industrial technology, diesel technology, industrial electricity, welding, or pipe welding can also apply. These scholarships can be used for college expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and/or supplies.
Applications are currently being accepted, and UA Cossatot will continue to take applications up until July 1, 2020, which will then be reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. Chosen recipients will be notified immediately so that proceeds can be applied towards either the summer or fall term.
The RAMP Scholarship Application is on the UA Cossatot website, along with requirements for potential recipients. For more information, please contact Tommi Cobb, RAMP Coordinator at 870-584-1158, or tcobb@cccua.edu.
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.