Arkansas roundup

Governor Beebe says there are no plans to restrict the definition of "groceries," which would affect the sales tax cut and could lead to accounting problems with the state and retailers. The governor says repealing the other half of the sales tax on groceries remains a top priority. [AP]

Richard Wilson told a legislative panel Wednesday that high gas prices could affect state revenue. Wilson, the assistant director for research with the Arkansas Bureau of Legislative Research, said that Arkansans will continue to buy gasoline but may start spending less on non-essentials, such as going to movies or buying new clothes. DF&A Director Richard Weiss said his office's projections for sales tax growth was conservative. [Ark. News Bureau]

Beebe says east Arkansas could soon land new projects [AP]

State plans to keep eye on drilling operations [AP]

Hwy. Dept. program would use inmates to pick up roadway litter [Ark. News Bureau] [ADG]

Highway Commission votes to fine Union Pacific $2,500 [AP]

Saline County welcomes new plant [Benton Courier]

Straight talk from Beebe [Jacksonville Leader]