Governor Beebe reflects on first six months in office

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Spotlight on tomorrow's tax cuts: the grocery tax

When you head over to the supermarket tomorrow, how do you know how much you're going to pay in sales tax? Let's say you push the buggy up to the checkout counter with a six pack of Old Milwaukee (well, not tomorrow since it's Sunday), a plate of hot boudin you got from the deli, a bag of dog food, and a pecan pie made at the store (this is starting to sound like the woman in front of me this morning). You're going to be pretty disappointed with the receipt, because you won't be getting any benefit from the new tax cut that goes into effect tomorrow.

This is more than you're probably ever going to want to know, but beginning tomorrow, the state will begin charging a different rate of sales tax on "food and food ingredients" than that which is levied on all other items you toss into the buggy. How are you going to determine what is charged at the reduced rate? That depends on what it is and where/how it's made. Here's the language straight out of the code:

Ark. Code Ann. §26-52-317: Beginning July 1, 2007, in lieu of the gross receipts or gross proceeds taxes levied on food and food ingredients under §§ 26-52-301 and 26-52-302, there is levied a tax on the gross receipts or gross proceeds derived from the sale of food and food ingredients at the rate of two and seven-eighths percent (2.875%)... (don't forget the extra 1/8 cent tax dedicated by the people for natural resources/Dept. of Parks & Tourism/Game & Fish)

What is the definition of food and food ingredients? It's defined as "substances, whether in liquid, concentrated, solid, frozen, dried, or dehydrated form, that are sold for ingestion or chewing by humans and are consumed for their taste or nutritional value. “Food and food ingredients” does not include an alcoholic beverage, tobacco, a dietary supplement, or prepared food.

How are the exclusions defined?
“Alcoholic beverage” means a beverage that is suitable for human consumption and contains one-half of one percent (0.5%) or more of alcohol by volume;

“Dietary supplement” means any product, other than tobacco, intended to supplement the diet that: (A) Contains one (1) or more of the following dietary ingredients: (i) A vitamin; (ii) A mineral; (iii) An herb or other botanical; (iv) An amino acid; (v) A dietary substance for use by humans to supplement the diet by increasing the total dietary intake; or (vi) A concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract, or combination of any ingredient described in this subdivision (b)(2)(A), and is intended for ingestion in tablet, capsule, powder, softgel, gelcap, or liquid form, or if not intended for ingestion in such a form, is not represented as conventional food and is not represented for use as a sole item of a meal or of the diet; and (B) Is required to be labeled as a dietary supplement, identifiable by the “Supplemental Facts” box found on the label and as required pursuant to 21 C.F.R. § 101.36, as it existed on January 1, 2007;

“Prepared food” means: (i) Food sold in a heated state or heated by the seller; (ii) Two or more food ingredients mixed or combined by the seller for sale as a single item; or (iii)(a) Food sold with an eating utensil provided by the seller, including a plate, knife, fork, spoon, glass, cup, napkin, or a straw. (b) As used in this subdivision (b)(4)(A)(iii) “plate” does not include a container or packaging used to transport the food. (B) “Prepared food” does not include food that is only cut, repackaged, or pasteurized by the seller, or eggs, fish, meat, poultry, and foods containing these raw animal foods requiring cooking by the consumer to prevent food borne illnesses as recommended by the Food and Drug Administration in Chapter 3, Part 401.11 of its Food Code as it existed on January 1, 2007;

“Tobacco” means cigarettes, cigars, chewing or pipe tobacco, or any other item that contains tobacco.

There's your crash course in the "grocery" tax cut going into effect tomorrow. The reasons for the definitions are numerous but are based on the notion that this particular tax cut is designed to reduce a regressive burden on necessities. They're also identical to federal definitions and similar to how other states define and levy sales tax on groceries. Don't forget that all items will continue to be subject to the full local tax.

The $121 million grocery tax cut was the largest of nearly $200 million in tax cuts signed into law during this legislative session. It'll save the typical Arkansas family $234 annually on its grocery bills. The Associated Press has wall-to-wall coverage of tomorrow's tax cut:

Examples of items affected by the cut in Ark.'s grocery sales tax
Ark. grocery tax cut: There's always room for Jell-O
Tax changes highlight list of new Ark. laws taking effect
Ark. grocery tax cut a relief for all, but a headache for grocers

Potential constitutional amendments or initiated acts on the 2008 ballot

Andrew DeMillo has a rundown of some that are being discussed: (1) a ban on homosexuals from fostering or adopting children, (2) a statewide lottery for education, (3) a minimum wage increase with annual adjustments for inflation, (4) a measure that would classify as interest the fees charged by payday lenders (and thus making them applicable to the usury limit), and (5) an initiated act to establish a $25 million trauma-care system using general revenue money.

Louisiana session ends

The 2007 Louisiana legislature adjourned sine die on Thursday, and the northwest Louisiana delegation is coming home with the matching funds necessary to build I-49 from Shreveport to the Arkansas line here in Miller County. The $95 million in new state funds for I-49, when matched with $380 million in matching federal funds, will provide all of the estimated funding necessary to complete the project.

This will provide our state with a convenient north-south link to a metropolitan area that is very similar in population to Pulaski County -- Shreveport's population is 200,145 (compared to 183,133 for Little Rock), and Bossier City is 56,461 (compared to 60,433 for North Little Rock). The distance between Loop 245 in Texarkana and the 220 Loop in Shreveport is 63 miles. The Arkansas portion of future I-49, of course, is complete all the way to Doddridge (about 5 miles from the Louisiana border at Ida in Caddo Parish).

The biggest disappointment from the session appears to be the failure to enact the "glass pockets" legislation (a clever title for legislative disclosure requirements and ethics reform). Here are a couple of good links for a summary of the Louisiana session:

Legislature comes to an end without glass pockets [Shreveport Times]
Editorial: Legislative session long on spending [Shreveport Times]
Session provided a law for just about everyone [N.O. Times-Picayune]
2007 Legislative Session Ends [WAFB Baton Rouge]
Legislative session over [Baton Rouge Advocate]
Legislative session effects to extend for decades [Monroe News-Star]
The session: The good and the bad [Bayoubuzz.com]

And here's a KTBS interview with Rep. Roy Burrell (D-Shreveport).

Giant Salvinia update

Last month, I wrote in about Giant Salvinia, an aquatic weed that'll invade Arkansas lakes soon enough. Since last month, the stuff has continued to spread. It's now been found in eight lakes and rivers in northwest Louisiana, including Black Bayou near Hosston (about 4 miles south of the Arkansas line). Here are a couple of pictures of Lake Bistineau, which is east of Shreveport:


Before long, that'll look like this (I don't even think the Waterboy could get through that). The easiest way for it to spread to different lakes is by boat and boat trailer as seen here:

Texas law now requires boaters in that state to inspect their boat and trailer prior to launching. Giant Salvinia creates a monoculture and suffocates/smothers out all other plant life. It can be treated by a spray, but unless the entire weed is killed, it'll just come back, and it normally doubles in size in 4 days. It won't take long for it to show here in Arkansas, and boaters ought to be on the lookout for it in places like Millwood and Lake Erling. Today's Shreveport Times has a very informative article on its growth and how it can be treated.

Arkansas weekend

Arkansas Festivals and Events Today:
18th Annual PurpleHull Pea Festival & World Championship Tiller Race (Emerson)
32nd Annual MVPA Convention
(State House Conv. Center, LR)
10th Ann Buffalo River Elk Festival (Jasper)
8th Ann Archey Fork Summer Festival (Clinton)
Stand Up For America 2007 (Nashville)American Freedom Weekend (Horseshoe Bend)
"Jammin in the Delta" Blues Festival (Lake Village)
Greers Ferry Independence Day Celebration (Fairfield Bay)
Old Time Gathering on the Square (Mountain View)
Sparks in the Park (Spring Lake Park, Texarkana)

From the governor's office

Governor Beebe announced 21 appointments to boards and commissions yesterday. Here's his media release.

There will apparently be an economic development announcement tomorrow morning at the Little Rock Chamber, which has been confirmed by Matt DeCample in the governor's office. Roby Brock reports that Welspun Pipes will locate a major production facility at the Little Rock Port Authority, bringing more than 235 jobs to the area.

The governor will be in northwest Arkansas today visiting the Springdale Pre-K Center (8:45 a.m.) and addressing the Leadership Arkansas graduation luncheon in Rogers (11:00 a.m.).

Sunday marks the new fiscal year in 46 states

Lots of changes will take place across the country beginning Sunday, which marks the beginning of the fiscal year in 46 states. While most of our Acts without an emergency clause here in Arkansas go into effect 90 days after sine die adjournment (July 31st this year), our tax cuts will go into effect Sunday. This includes the tax cut on groceries (Act 110), the reduction of sales tax on energy usage for manufacturers (Act 185), and the exemption for off-road diesel fuel (Act 87). I wonder how many families across the state are waiting until Sunday to head over to the grocery store.

Also here in Arkansas, an administrative decision to end peer-to-peer software on the Arkansas Public School Computer Network beginning July 1 will take place after programs designed to share music, videos and other software slowed a state public school computer network. Here's today's Associated Press story, and here's a link to the ADE memo.

Here are some new laws of interest in other states that will take effect on Sunday:

Smokers will pay more in Alaska (another 20 cents per pack), Connecticut, Indiana (44 cents), New Hampshire (28 cents) and Tennessee (42 cents) -- all will raise their levies Sunday. The tax rises in Delaware on July 31 and in Hawaii on Sept. 30.

USA Today reports that Florida will punish adults by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine for leaving young children unsupervised in a car for more than 15 minutes. Tennessee will require that kids wear helmets when riding off-road vehicles until they're 18 and bar them from buying fireworks until they're 16. California will ban junk food in schools.

Stateline.org provides an extensive list of new laws that will take effect on Sunday.

Iowa. It now will be a felony to dismember or hide a body to conceal a crime. That law was prompted by a recent police investigation of a woman who helped her boyfriend cut up and hide the body of his murdered roommate. She could only be charged with lying to investigators.

Indiana. Widows suspected of causing a spouse’s death no longer can be in charge of the funeral arrangements. Coroners in that state will now be required to use one of four methods to identify a body -- fingerprints, DNA, dental records or positive identification by a family member -- after the case involving two female car accident victims whose identities were switched. About a month after one was buried, her family learned that she was actually the survivor who had been in a coma.

Tennessee. If you want to purchase alcohol, you'll have to show identification no matter how old you are (the same bill was proposed in Arkansas this session). This law expires after a year and doesn't apply to purchases made in restaurants and bars.

Georgia. A new law requires residents who seek public benefits such as Medicaid to bring a passport or birth certificate to prove their citizenship. That state joins 11 others in requiring that women seeking abortions be offered a chance to see the ultrasound of the fetus.

Iowa. Researchers in Iowa now can conduct embryonic stem cell research.

Massachusetts. Residents in Massachusetts will be required to purchase health insurance beginning Sunday.

Illinois. Class-skipping students under 18 in that state won’t be allowed to get their learner’s permit or driver’s license.

Arizona. Every public classroom in Arizona will have to display an American-made U.S. flag. Also, every classroom from 7th grade up must post a copy of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Virginia. It'll be a felony beginning Sunday in Virginia for anyone other than police to purchase a gun for someone who’s not allowed to buy one. Also in Virginia, parents will have to put their kids in booster seats until they’re 7 instead of 5 years old. It now will be a misdemeanor in Virginia to smoke within 20 feet of a gasoline pump — and if that pump catches fire, violators could face a year in jail. Finally in Virginia, if you want to go to a tanning booth in that state, you have to get parental permission if you're 14 or younger.

Maryland. Ex-criminals in that state will be able to register to vote again once they complete their sentences.

Thursday's U.S. Supreme Court ruling

The Associated Press reports that yesterday's Supreme Court ruling that struck down school integration plans in Kentucky and Seattle will probably change the way the Little Rock, North Little Rock and Pulaski County school districts assign students once the Pulaski County district is declared unitary. Thanks to Rep. Bruce Maloch for bringing the ruling to my attention yesterday. Here's the 185-page opinion. Want the cliff notes version? Here's the NY Times article.

Rural safety

Of the 648 crash fatalities in Arkansas in 2005, 527 of them (81%) occurred on rural roads. Only eight states had a higher percentage of rural crash fatalities that year. Texas had the highest number of fatalities on rural roads in 2005 (1,974). Careful out there on this upcoming holiday week. Here's the University of Minnesota study using data from the National Traffic Safety Administration.

In an effort to curb crash fatalities in Virginia (and to raise money for road projects without raising taxes), that state is now the home of the $3,000 traffic ticket. USA Today reports that the penalty for going 20 mph over the speed limit will be $1,311 (includes court costs) beginning Sunday. A first-time DWI will cost $2,750 and driving without a license is $1,000. Virginia's new traffic penalties are expected to raise $65 million a year, and they only apply to in-state drivers, as the The state legislature didn't think it could enforce the extra penalties in other states.

Spotlight on Sunday's tax cuts

Sales tax on energy consumption for manufacturers

With the new state fiscal year beginning Sunday comes the effective date of the tax cuts that were enacted this legislative session. While the reduction in grocery tax has garnered most of the attention, manufacturers will also get a break on their energy bills beginning Sunday. Act 185 of 2007 reduces the state tax on the sale of electricity and natural gas by 1.5% to 4.375%. The tax rate will be reduced by another 0.5% on July 1, 2008. The energy must be consumed for use directly in the manufacturing process.

In order to get an idea of how this tax cut will help Arkansas workers, I toured one of the area's manufacturing plants today that will take advantage of Act 185. Temple-Inland in Hope manufactures industrial grade particleboard for a variety of customers and employs 125 workers from all over southwest Arkansas.


The plant operates around the clock seven days a week, and its electric bill normally runs in the $370,000 to $400,000 range per month. Act 185 will save this particular company approximately $75,000 per year. The 2008 reduction will save them an additional $20,000 annually. This can help existing and potential companies in my area of the state tremendously, since Texas does not levy sales tax on energy consumption.

While I freely admit that the continuing reduction of the sales tax on food and food ingredients is a top priority if revenues continue to increase, of equal importance is the ability to attract and retain businesses, all of whom are competing in a global economy with thin profit margins. One advantage that we have over Texas is lower property taxes, but that's negated by our sales tax on utilities.

One of Temple-Inland's largest customers is Funder America, which is located just right across the street. Another local business that it provides particleboard to is Klipsch. Hopefully, Act 185 will show existing businesses that we appreciate their contribution and loyalty to the Arkansas economy and that we're serious about attracting new businesses to the state.

Dr. Joe Thompson reappointed as state's top medical director

This revamped surgeon general position was created by Act 384 of 2007 (see p. 2, line 34 and p. 6, line 9 if you're interested). The primary effect of that legislation authorized the governor to split DHHS back into two agencies: the Department of Health and the Department of Human Services. Here's the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette article.

Also yesterday, the governor declared Crawford County a state disaster area because of tornado- and high-wind damage caused by storms on June 20. Here's his media release.

Floyd appointed as interim director of ADHE

Steve Floyd will act as interim director of the Arkansas Department of Higher Education until a replacement for outgoing director Linda Beene is named. Here's today's article from the Arkansas News Bureau. A reception honoring Beene was held yesterday at Trapnall Hall, and it was a full house.

Reuters: At $1,805, Arkansas only behind North Dakota with least expensive bureaucracy in highway program

Here's a report from a recent study for the worst traffic in the U.S. Arkansas is mentioned on page two.

Dr. Katherine Mitchell

Dr. Katherine Mitchell, president of the Little Rock School Board, was the speaker at yesterday's Political Animals Club. She spoke about her relationship with Superintendent Roy Brooks and responded to the recent coverage from the Democrat-Gazette. The meetings are usually off the record, but cameras were allowed yesterday, and I think all but one of the local network affiliates were in attendance. This was the first one I'd attended since January. I know some readers are interested in this topic, so here's video:

Video 2

Legislative news

Peggy Harris with the Associated Press has an article this morning on an apparent plan by an armed felon in the Craighead County Courthouse to shoot an inmate on Monday (the plan was foiled when deputies got the tip that he was armed). The article discusses recent legislative action to improve security in our courtrooms, which I can say woefully lags behind our neighboring states. The 2007 legislation (Acts 576 and 1219) is a good step towards improving courtroom security in Arkansas, and I'm hopeful that we'll eventually have the resources in each of the 75 counties to prevent potential dangerous situations like Monday's Craighead County event.

The 2007 legislation resulted from recommendations made by a 2006 task force headed up by Miller County Circuit Judge Jim Hudson. In neighboring counties across the border in Texas/Louisiana, entry through a metal detector is required (as is the case in federal court and Pulaski County). People have the right to feel safe in public places, and this legislation is designed to help protect not only litigants and courtroom staff but jurors as well.

A project by three Harrisburg High School students to map school bus routes using satellite technology drew accolades Tuesday from state lawmakers who said the project could serve as a model for the rest of the state. [John Lyon -- Ark. News Bureau]

Act 668 of 2007, enacted as an attempt to fix a state wine statute, satisfies a coalition of Arkansas alcohol distributors and package stores that previously filed to have the statute declared unconstitutional. The group calls for an end to the lawsuit they filed last year in Pulaski County Circuit Court. [Daniel Nasaw -- ADG]

Term limits will hit Benton County particularly hard this election cycle, where only one of seven House members and one of two senators hope to return as lawmakers in 2009 (my former superintendent, Les Carnine, is considering a run for District 94). [Laura Kellams -- ADG]

Executive/Administrative:
Lt. Gov. Bill Halter spoke on the economy during a Tuesday luncheon in Bentonville hosted by the Bentonville/Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce and Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport. [TMN]

Rick Watkins replaces Sheffield Nelson on the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission [Ark. News Bureau]

The state Board of Finance on Tuesday decided to seek a 4. 66 percent interest rate from banks for $ 150 million in state funds to be invested through the board in six-month certificates of deposit. [Mike Wickline -- ADG]

The Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism will make the first installment ($6.1M) on its share of a new Lake Fort Smith State Park by Saturday [ADG]

Richard Weiss, the director of the state Department of Finance and Administration, was (re-)sworn in to the post on Monday [ADG]

Wednesday's commentary

National:
New York Times: Gitmos across America
Washington Post: A less-than-banner ruling
Boston Globe: What cities and towns need now
Los Angeles Times: Border Vigilance

Regional:
Dallas Morning News: Tough TXU ground rules
Houston Chronicle: Bribery on the border
Tulsa World: Jenks graduate to perform
S'port Times: Students' summer freedom comes with responsibility
Memphis Commercial Appeal: Landing project needs oversight

State:
David Sanders: Baker in governor's crosshairs
Gene Lyons: Who's the phony?
Meredith Oakley: More can be done to reduce infant mortality
Paul Greenberg: 50 ways to beat the heat
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Easy there, big fella!
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Farce into tragedy
Brenda Blagg: Hillary hailed at home

Local:
Texarkana Gazette: Tribes and Trailers
Benton County Daily Record: Pica Pole : Loving nature too much?
Northwest Arkansas Times: Table for one
Baxter Bulletin: What a difference a year makes
Russellville Courier: I'm in big trouble

Opposition to proposed coal-fueled plant organizes

The Sierra Club held a conference yesterday at the Capitol. Here's coverage along with a YouTube video:

YouTube video
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Arkansas News Bureau

The 600 megawatt plant is proposed to be built near Fulton (Hempstead County) and will use an advanced coal combustion technology called “ultra-supercritical,” making it one of the first plants of its type to go into operation in the U.S. The anticipated completion date is 2011, and the project is expected to bring 1,400 temporary jobs and 110 permanent positions to the region.

You can view all public comments submitted to the PSC on the proposed plant here.

Couple of report cards

U.S. Chamber state-by-state report card on educational effectiveness
Arkansas gets a D for academic achievement; neighbors' grades: LA (F), MS (F), OK (F), TN (D), MO (D), TX (C).

Interim report on state legislative successes
We're listed as an "incremental gainer" (see p. 25 [21 of the report])

Today at the Capitol

10:00 a.m. | Academic Facilities Oversight Committee (Rm. 151) Agenda

10:00 a.m. | Task Force on Abused and Neglected Children (Rm. 130) Agenda

2:30 p.m. | Governor’s Conference Room, State Capitol, Little Rock
Governor Beebe announces an appointment to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

Lt. Gov. Halter is in Bentonville and Bella Vista today visiting with business and community leaders.

In Texarkana, there's a triple groundbreaking east of Gander Mountain on University Avenue for Lafferty's T.V. & Appliance, Golf USA, and Niko's Tuscan Grille -- all at 11:30.

Bout between north and south Louisiana for I-49 dollars

More than 80 percent of the $95 million in new state funding earmarked for Interstate 49 this legislative session is going to the northern section. As of last night, $77.5 million was earmarked for I-49 North between Shreveport and the Arkansas line in Miller County. Only $17.5 million - enough to build one or two overpasses - was earmarked for I-49 South, from Lafayette to New Orleans. Here's the Lafayette perspective.

Williams announces for House District 36

Darrin Williams, a Little Rock attorney and member of the Little Rock Planning Commission, has announced his candidacy for House District 36, which is being vacated by Rep. Linda Chesterfield due to term limits. Williams is a partner with the Little Rock law firm of Cauley, Bowman, Carney & Williams. He received his Bachelor's degree from Hendrix, JD from Vandy, and and his LLM from Georgetown. Williams was formerly Chief Deputy Attorney General for the State of Arkansas.

House District 36

Latest scam targets military spouses

In April, the Red Cross issued a warning about a scam targeting the families of soldiers where a caller pretends to be an official with the National Red Cross who is notifying the family member of injuries sustained by a loved one serving in the military. Life-saving medical treatment can be administered only after the necessary paperwork has been completed. Social Security numbers and birthdates are part of the “necessary” information. According to a media release issued by Dustin McDaniel, the scam has hit Arkansas. Here's today's editorial and yesterday's article in the Texarkana Gazette.

Fundraiser hosted by 2 Dems for Baker draws attention from the Democrat-Gazette

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette article

Elsewhere in the Democrat-Gazette, Governor Beebe announces that he won't be using the new state King Air for personal trips.

There's also an editorial on the Lodge on Mt. Magazine, which opened a little over a year ago. I haven't stayed there yet but hope to do so this Fall.

Henderson St., SAU want to switch bonds to cover nursing program costs

Two schools in the area, Henderson State and SAU, have asked the state's Higher Education Coordinating Board to shift money set aside by a statewide bond issue for funding nursing school buildings. Both schools will be before the higher education board Wednesday to discuss their requests. If the higher education commission approves the shifts, the schools would need to show the Legislative Council it had the money on hand to cover the bond. After that, officials could go out to bid on their projects. Here's the Associated Press story.

Little River Co. officials discuss economic growth and development

The Little River News features a meeting of local civic, government and business leaders to discuss the future of growth in Little River County, which was held on Friday, June 15. Rep. Larry Cowling attended and addressed the gathering.

Is cockfighting history in the U.S.?

Louisiana is on the verge of enacting legislation that all but kills one of the state's pastimes -- cockfighting. After Oklahoma banned the practice in 2002 and New Mexico earlier this year, Louisiana became the only place in the country where you can strap razors on a couple of roosters and watch them kill each other. Arkansas was actually an enabler until recently when the practice of raising birds here for fighting was outlawed. Many supporters of the practice say that it's a part of the state's identity and that outlawing it is just another intrusive, controlling step by big brother. In the end, it looks as though the legislation will put an end to the sport -- or will it?

La. SB221 does go a long way of ending this practice, but in reality it only bans gambling at cockfights. In other words, when the law comes sniffing around, you only need to put away the money, not the roosters. This probably will put an end to organized cockfighting, which does exist. Until recently, the Ark-La-Tex Game Club operated just 50 yards from the Arkansas line on Hwy. 71. It's in injunctive limbo while a parish ordinance prohibiting the practice is being litigated. I've witnessed many a full parking lot there on Saturdays. Competing legislation to SB221 is also pending, and the effective date of any gambling ban is uncertain at this point. Cockfighting sympathizers are seeking to make it August, 2008, which will give the legislature one more session to take action on the practice. Here's a good editorial from the New Orleans Times-Picayune on the subject.

If you think it's not a heated topic down there, take a look at this letter to the editor in the Lafayette Daily Advertiser:

I do not attend cockfights, but I have a son who does and am happy to say he does not do drugs and doesn't even drink. There is a lot more bad stuff out there that's harming our children, and until attention is called to these real problems, God help us.

Juanita Savoy
St. Martinville

The town of Sunset, Louisiana is known as the cockfighting hub of St. Landry Parish. The Daily Advertiser looks at how that town will be affected by any ban. The site is also taking a poll on whether the local economy will be adversely impacted by any ban on cockfighting. 52% say yes so far.

States acting on illegal immigration

The Washington Post has a front page article today on action taken by states on the issue of illegal immigration. At least 1,100 bills have been filed in state capitols across the nation this year on the issue.

Back to SCR20, the Sudan resolution

Like many other states, Arkansas, with the help of Sen. Sue Madison, adopted a resolution calling on Arkansas pension systems to identify, divest and prevent future investments in companies operating in Sudan until the genocide in Darfur ends. Mike Wickline provides an update on action taken by the state's two largest public retirement systems.

Remembering the 'forgotten war'

The Korean War began 57 years ago today. As I type this, Governor Beebe is helping to dedicate the Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial. Here's the site.

For a list of all Arkansans who served in the war (and for a list of those killed in action), click here.

Louisiana's I-49 funding solidified

The Louisiana Senate Finance Committee Sunday adopted clarifying language yesterday that $60 million in new funding in the $1.9 billion surplus spending bill must be spent on I-49 construction from I-220 north to the Arkansas line. An additional $15 million in cash from the state's Unclaimed Property Fund must go into savings account for I-49, thanks to legislation from Rep. Roy Burrell, D-Shreveport. Here's today's Shreveport Times article.

Mike Ross throws some red meat to the downstate Hog fan

Congressman Mike Ross is co-sponsoring the Television Freedom Act of 2007, a bipartisan bill to ensure that satellite and cable customers have access to in-state news, sports and local programming from network affiliates. This has long been a problem here in Texarkana. Since we're in the Shreveport media market here in Texarkana, we're normally at the mercy of Louisiana programming. Our only Arkansas news coverage comes from the Democrat-Gazette (doesn't deliver to my particular neighborhood), AETN, and KATV (but generally only during news programming). KTBS does a good job of local Texarkana programming during its 6:00 and 10:00 newscasts. While the benefits of this legislation would mainly include more Arkansas news coverage, I think you'll see a lot of the discussion centered around sports programming.

Growing up, it wasn't unusual for us to drive to Hope on a weeknight and rent a hotel room just for the evening to watch a Razorback basketball game on KARK. I remember seeing a Gazette article around here somewhere on problems televising the famous 1969 shootout between #1 Texas and #2 Arkansas here in Texarkana, but I can't find the newspaper clipping. I could give dozens of examples, but being a Hog fan here in this corner of the state means that you seldom know whether your team will be on television until the morning of the game. I remember former LSU football coach Curley Hallman tell a reporter upon Arkansas's entry to the SEC that there were probably more Razorback fans than LSU fans across northern Louisiana (Baja Arkansas). That was probably true at that point, and we were frequently televised in Shreveport (but still not over a lousy game between 2-9 LSU vs. 4-7 Ole Miss). Arkansas had been what most would consider a perennial top 10 football program in the previous three decades at that time, and our baseball and basketball programs were regulars in the CWS and Sweet 16. Since then, both LSU and Texas have seen a resurgence in their football programs, meaning that anytime LSU or Texas is scheduled for a game at the same time the Razorbacks play, chances are we won't be seeing it here in Texarkana. This also goes for other cable programming, including the regional sportsnet channels from Fox. While Arkansas may be playing Georgia or Auburn on Fox Sports South, we're normally relegated to watching Texas Tech vs. Baylor on Fox Sports Southwest. Even on Lincoln Financial's split-telecast games, we'll sometimes miss an Arkansas-Alabama matchup in favor of LSU-Kentucky.

This legislation is going to see some strong opposition from broadcasters and netwrok affiliates. Ross said the market areas were designed based on over-the-air broadcast ranges from the 1950s. Television should advance to the 21st century, he said. "How many people get their TV from an antenna in the air anymore?" Ross asked. Good question, and I figure this bill will have some appeal to those in Congress representing border areas.

Sunday morning Ark-La-Tex roundup

Ark. News Bureau: Clinton rallies state Democrats at fundraiser
ADG: Sen. Clinton in Arkansas talks of war, health care
Associated Press: Clinton returns to Arkansas for Dems' fundraiser
Txk Gaz: Twin Cities' talks may lead to combining cities’ services
Roby Brock: Arkansas business update
David Sanders: On on-air announcers
Texarkana Gazette: Report: JDC now in compliance with standards
Ark. News Bureau: Nice idea, but state may be lost in early primaries
Texarkana Gazette Editorial: Save the clinic
ADG: Law aims to enforce tax rules on potties
ADG Editorial: A push for partisanship
Les Minor: Biofuel fad could take food from table
AP News Analysis: Ark. GOP not sweating impact of Bloomberg run
NW Ark. Times: Group releases legislative report card [Guide (p. 12)]

Waco Tribune: King Craddick's decree
Dallas Morning News: TXU sale unlikely to help consumers
Montgomery Co. Courier: Perry's veto decision debated
Ethel Channon: Change means chance to shed image
Odessa American: Law isn't fair
Austin American-Statesman: The next level of care for kids
Lufkin Daily News: Scattershots on the legislature
Paris News: Perry says one thing, does another

Baton Rouge Advocate: New budget, old politics
Shreveport Times: Legislature working to crescendo ending on taxes
New Orleans Times-Picayune: State senate starts spending surplus
Shreveport Times: If surplus goes for good, can it be 'squandered'?
Shreveport Times: State needs more physicians in rural settings
Monroe News-Star: Give boards more tuition control

Jefferson-Jackson Dinner with Hillary Clinton

Video 2       Video 3

Great crowd at tonight's event. I was a little worried about having the event in a 19,000 seat arena, but as you can see, there were plenty of people to fill it up (at least on one side). Clinton touched on an array of issues, including Iraq, global warming, and No Child Left Behind, but it seemed the most applause came from her discussion of health care.

I need to be home tonight, so I'm going to head that direction. I may be a little late with the Sunday morning roundup.

Politico.com's angle on tonight's JJ Dinner

When Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) addresses some 4,000 Democrats at the Alltel Arena here Saturday night, she’ll be less than a mile away from her old office at the Rose Law Firm.

Politico.com story (written by Suzi Parker).

Beebe: 'My job is to help restore faith in government'

The governor spoke at an Arkansas Press Association luncheon this week -- here the Associated Press article. The governor also hinted at the possibility of some economic development news within the next several days in central Arkansas.

In the Democrat-Gazette, the governor gives his take on enforcement of the U.S. immigration policy in the same meeting.

Hino had eyes for Marion but chooses W.Va.

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Arkansas News Bureau
Associated Press

Arkansas weekend

Arkansas Festivals and Events Today:
Jefferson-Jackson Dinner (Alltel Arena, NLR)
27th Annual Brickfest (Malvern)
11th Annual Mt. Magazine Butterfly Festival (Paris)
NFL Hometown Weekend (Texarkana)
Two Rivers Gala for LR Co. Historical Society (Northridge CC, Txk)
26th Annual Summer Bluegrass Festival (Vilonia)
49th Miss Arkansas Pageant (Hot Springs)
9th Annual Freedom Fest (West Memphis)
Arkansas Sr. Democrats Meeting (Whole Hog Cafe, LR -- 11:30)
First Ladies Gowns' Display with Ginger Beebe (Old State House, LR)

Doug Thompson: Sumpter presses trauma center issue

Here's the link. This seems to be the best time of the day to post, as I've had trouble posting at all other times of the day. I hope to have the kinks worked out with this problem soon so that the blog can be back to full speed.

Arkansas Week

It's Ann Clemmer, Hoyt Purvis, Rick Fahr, and David Keith joining Steve Barnes tonight. Watch it here:

Or just click here (must have a video player)

Here are links to popular video players for you to download if necessary:
Apple QuickTime -- Windows Media Player -- RealPlayer

Beebe announces 24 appointments

Here's his press release.

New minimum wage hike won't affect workers in 30 states

The first federal minimum wage increase in 11 years will take effect on July 24, but it won't affect workers in Arkansas or 29 other states. The increase to $5.85 will affect workers on the western side of State Line Avenue, and on July 24, 2008, the next automatic hike in the minimum wage will take effect and workers on both sides of the state line will be guaranteed a minimum of $6.55. Here are the 30 states that will still be above the federal minimum wage after next month:

Maryland $6.15
Minnesota $6.15
Montana $6.15
North Carolina $6.15
Iowa $6.20
Arkansas $6.25
Nevada $6.33
Missouri $6.50
Wisconsin $6.50
West Virginia $6.55
Delaware $6.65
Florida $6.67
Arizona $6.75
Maine $6.75
Colorado $6.85
Ohio $6.85
Alaska $7.15
Michigan $7.15
New Jersey $7.15
New York $7.15
Pennylvania $7.15
Hawaii $7.25
Rhode Island $7.40
California $7.50
Illinois $7.50
Massachusetts $7.50
Vermont $7.53
Connecticut $7.65
Oregon $7.80
Washington $7.93

10 of these states have rates that will automatically adjust for inflation -- Arkansas is not among them.

Got 5 minutes?

This video is worth the watch. This is one amazing mission from a Utah woman for our soldiers who've given the ultimate measure of devotion. The video should begin playing automatically.

Are we up?

It looks like we might be up and working. Testing:

States face decisions on who is mentally fit to vote [New York Times]

Trying to find Huckabee's niche [David Sanders]

Edit: Great. I'll be out of the office this morning, so I'll get the blog back in gear this afternoon.

Working on a glitch

I'm getting an error message each time I try to post a new entry. It started Saturday and just took an hour or two for the posts to show -- now I can't get anything to post. I'm putting this up at 8:45 a.m., so I'm not sure how long it'll take to show. Hope to have it fixed at some point today.

Test 6:29pm
Test 12:28am
Test 6:12 am

Rep. Sumpter drafting a proposal for 2008 ballot on trauma center -- Updated

Rep. Denny Sumpter is drafting a proposed initiated act that would create a trauma center program funded annually with $25 million in general revenue. He said he expects to file the measure with the attorney general's office next month assuming the governor doesn't call a special session to address the issue. Beebe spokesman Matt DeCample said Monday the governor has "no plans right now to call a special session on any topic."

The version Sumpter's working on would take existin money from general revenue to provide the money needed for a trauma system. Here's coverage:
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Associated Press
Arkansas News Bureau

Update: Here's the governor's response regarding the funding of the proposed trauma center using general revenue.

State to hold hearing on Swepco power plant in July

The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality will hold a public hearing and open house at 6:00 p.m. on July 12 for Swepco’s air permit application. It will be held in the student center at UACCH, 2500 S. Main St. Here's coverage from the Texarkana Gazette.

Monday at the Capitol

10:00 a.m. | House Public Health, Welfare & Labor Committee (Rm. 130, Capitol) Agenda

10:00 a.m. | House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative & Military Affairs Committee (Rm. 151, Capitol) Agenda

WSJ: 'Super-Duper Tuesday' May Be Too Big to Matter

We're up to 23 states now set for a Fat Tuesday primary on February 5, 2008. The Wall Street Journal takes a look at its impact.

Here's another interesting article from the Nevada Appeal. Apparently, A guilt-ridden employee surprised the Nevada Treasurer's Office Thursday with $30 cash for wasting time on the job.

Monday's Texarkana Gazette editorial page

Christy Busby follows up on Sunday's editorial of the funding of Lantz Lurry Juvenile Detention Center. Both the Miller County Quorum Court and the Texarkana, Arkansas City Board meet tonight for their monthly meetings.

The editorial board chastises the Massachusetts Legislature for failing to refer the issue of gay marriage to the voters. I generally feel the same way as the editorial board on most of these referendum issues -- let the people give it an up or down vote. The problem can be prioritizing them, since in Arkansas, we're only allowed to refer three issues to the voters during a session.

Sunday morning Ark-La-Tex roundup

Les Minor: What if two cities were merged as one?
John Brummett: Marion Berry gets their attention
Roby Brock: Arkansas business update
David Sanders: Earmarks by another name
Texarkana Gazette Editorial: Time to grow up
Ark. News Bureau: Political Notebook: Lights, Camera, Lincoln
Ark. News Bureau: Drive for highway program idling
ANB: Officials see smooth transition to reduced grocery tax
Harry King: UA Prediction: 8-4
ADG: Income goal is a high bar
ADG: Tax cut provides food for thought
ADG: Visitors taking a shine to Crater of Diamonds
AP News Analysis: Central High event could build bridges for Bush
AP Interview: General says Ark. Guard needs weapons of war


San Antonio Express-News: Fix term limits? Not if system is not broken
Plainview Daily Herald: Time to return to good old statesmanship
Ethel Channon: Time for zero tolerance of bad policies
Houston Chron: Lawmakers upset that HPD still ticketing plate borders
Denton Record-Chronicle: Tort reform
Dallas Morning News: Tort reform II
Midland Rep-Tel: Steroid testing bill gets positive reaction
Weatherford Democrat: Dewhurst's Dilemma, the Trans-Texas Corridor
San Antonio Express-News: Puente's links to lobbyist questioned
Waco Trib: Texas Legislature acknowledges TYC isn’t for every child off.

Baton Rouge Advocate: Teacher pay raise likely
Baton Rouge Advocate: Politics notebook for June 17, 2007
Shreveport Times: Louisiana Legislature goes into final overdrive
NowPublic: Louisiana last state to condone cockfighting
Shreveport Times: Ban cockfighting without further hesitation
Monroe News-Star: We can turn ethics issue into a plus
Monroe News-Star: Progress report on major bills of the session
Monroe News-Star: Legislature in 2-week drill with plenty to be resolved
Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Police fight a liquor loophole
Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Glass-pockets bill discussed by legislators

Hot issues in other state legislatures this month

There are some very big and controversial issues being considered this month across the country. 32 states have already adjourned in 2007, and we're up to 142,893 bills filed nationwide so far this year.

Business
Connecticut: The Senate and House have approved a measure that would require all cigarettes sold to be self-extinguishing;

Colorado: Gov. Bill Ritter (D) vetoed SB 84, which would have required the state to maintain a database of all persons registering as interior designers, allowing only those in the database to use the term “registered interior designer;"

Delaware: The Senate approved legislation which grants state insurance regulators the power to oversee health insurance rates. The measure moves to the House;

Maine: The Senate approved a bill that limits the fees mortgage lenders may
charge as well as bans the practice of “flipping” loans - when a lender convinces a
borrower to refinance without any benefit to the consumer. It goes to Gov. John Baldacci (D);

Oregon: The Senate approved HB 2871, legislation that would cap interest rates on all consumer loans under $50,000 at 30 percentage points above the federal reserve discount rate. It returns to the House for review of a minor amendment.

Crime & Punishment
Connecticut: House approved legislation that would require gun owners to report their lost or stolen weapons to police within 72 hours;

California: Prison officials in that state began allowing overnight conjugal visits for gay and lesbian inmates with registered domestic partners. California is one of only six that allow any kind of conjugal visit and the only state to allow them for same sex partners;

Missouri: The 8th Circuit ruled that that state's lethal injection death penalty procedure is not unconstitutionally cruel and unusual punishment;

Education
Oklahoma: Gov. Brad Henry (D) signed legislation that requires public schools to provide financial literacy instruction to students in grades 7 through 12. Coursework will cover topics like balancing a checkbook, credit card debt and retirement planning. It goes into effect for the 2008-2009 school year;

Louisiana: The House approved HB969, which would bar teachers, coaches and other school personnel from having sexual relationships with their students under age 19;

Oregon: The House approved a bill that would allow schoolchildren to possess and use medications for emergency relief of asthma and severe allergies. It returns to the Senate for review of amendments;

Environment
Oregon: Gov. Ted Kulongoski (D) signed legislation that requires large utilities to generate 25 percent of the Oregon's electricity from renewable resources such as wind, sunlight and biomass by 2025;

Health & Science
California: Senate and Assembly each pass measures that would, among other things, require employers to spend 7.5 percent of their payroll on health care or pay into a state fund that would provide comprehensive coverage. Each proposal — SB 48 and AB 48 — moves to the other chamber for review;

Vermont: Gov. Jim Douglas (R) allows legislation that will increase the number of people able to utilize the state’s medical marijuana statute to become law without his signature. The measure broadens the law to include people with chronic, debilitating conditions;

Rhode Island: Gov. Don Carcieri (R) vetoed legislation that would have made permanent the Ocean State’s law allowing seriously ill people to use marijuana. The measure was due to expire this year under a sunset clause. Lawmakers say they will seek an override;

Oklahoma: Gov. Brad Henry (D) signed a bill that increases Medicaid eligibility for children from 185 percent of the federal poverty level to 300 percent. That change is expected to add 42,000 additional children to the state health plan;

Immigration
Colorado: Gov. Bill Ritter (D) vetoed a bill that would have broadened the number and type of documents Centennial State driver’s license applicants could have used as identification for the state DMV. Critics of the measure contend it would have made it easier for illegal immigrants to obtain a license;

Social Policy
Michigan: The 6th Circuit upholds a lower court ruling that declared a Michigan statute banning partial birth abortion unconstitutional. The ruling said the law was overbroad so as to ban virtually all abortions in that state;

New Hampshire: The Senate approved a proposal to repeal a law requiring parental notification for teenagers to get abortions. The measure moves to Gov. John Lynch (D), who says he will sign it;

California: The Senate approved a bill to expand the domestic partnership law to include adult heterosexual couples. The Assembly (House) passed a bill that would legalize same-sex marriages. It goes to the Senate.

Miscellaneous
California: The Assembly (House) passed egislation that would bar the state from investing in companies involved with the defense or nuclear sector in Iran or companies developing Iranian petroleum resources that already are subject to federal sanctions. It moves to the Senate. The Cal. Assembly also passed a bill that would require dog and cat owners to spay or neuter their pets or face a $500 fine. It heads to the Senate (nod to Bob Barker?). Also in California, the Senate passed a bill that would place an advisory measure on next February’s ballot calling for the immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq.

Arkansas Weekend

Arkansas Festivals and Events Today:
1st Annual Statehood Day Celebration (Fayetteville)
11th Annual Arkansas Fiddlers' Contest (Leslie)
50th Anniversary of Queen Wilhelmina State Park (Mena)
24th Annual John Huddleston Day (Murfreesboro)
25th Annual Judge Parker Chili Cookoff (Fort Smith)
30th Annual Turkey Track Bluegrass Festival (Waldron)
36th Annual Oil Town Festival (Smackover)
49th Annual Petit Jean Swap Meet (Morrilton)
Bootlegger Daze (Calico Rock)
Homesteaders Day (Hardy)
19th Century Music (Old Washington)
Troutfest (Bull Shoals)
"100 years of weddings" starts at Museum of Reg. History (Texarkana)

Arkansas Week

It's Ann Clemmer, Carol Griffee, David Sanders, and Ernie Dumas joining Steve Barnes tonight.

Click here to watch it (must have a video player)

Here are links to popular video players for you to download if necessary:
Apple QuickTime -- Windows Media Player -- RealPlayer

ADEQ meets with state and local leaders in Saline County regarding hazmat proposal

State Sen. Shane Broadway and other Saline County officials met with ADEQ officals regarding a draft proposal for an ordinance to govern transfer stations that store hazardous wastes. Saline County Judge Lanny Fite and several JPs realized began work on the project after discussing problems experienced by residents in the I-30/Hwy. 67 area. On May 12, a trailer storing hazardous materials on the lot at Triad Transportation on Hwy. 67 caught fire and exploded, causing an evacuation of between 50-75 residents. Here's the story from the Benton Courier.

Searcy Daily Citizen: AG says he'll keep promises

Here's a good article from Dustin McDaniel's address to the Searcy Rotary Tuesday.

Here's another from Arkansas Business on the $5.5 million settlement with Ovcon announced Thursday.

Economic and environmental policy in Arkansas

The U of A Division of Agriculture's Public Policy Center and the Cooperative Extension Service will host a research symposium on June 28 -- Economic and Environmental Issues in Arkansas: A Policy Perspective. The event will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the CES auditorium in Little Rock. Check their site for updates if interested.

Where Arkansas ranks in various categories

Received these from the Taxpayers Network. Here's where we rank among other states (and DC) in various categories:

Demographics:
32nd -- Population (2,810,872)
22nd -- Growth in population since 2000 (2.34%)
2nd -- Least expensive owner occupied housing costs ($842/mo.)
8th -- Least expensive rental housing costs ($549/mo.)
49th -- Median housing value ($87,400)
49th -- Median family income ($43,134)
48th -- Personal income per capita ($26,641)
7th -- Percent of population below poverty level (17.2%)

Taxes/Revenue:
28th -- State and local tax burden as percent of income (10.3%)
32nd -- Maximum state corporate income tax rates (6.5%)
2nd -- Least expensive state and local property tax burden per capita ($400)

Government:
14th -- Full time state/local gov't employment per 10,000 residents (536)
51st -- Average state/local gov't annual pay ($34,455)
3rd -- 10-yr. change in state per capita total expenditures 1996-2005(40.8%)
36th -- Federal pork per capita by state ($24.72)

Agriculture/Economic:
9th -- Production of commodities: Livestock
2nd -- Production of commodities: Broilers
9th -- Production of commodities: Soybeans
4th -- Production of commodities: Cotton
1st -- Production of commodities: Chicken eggs
4th -- Production of commodities: Turkeys
1st -- Production of commodities: Rice
28th -- Average combined premiums for auto insurance ($875)
15th -- Average homeowners insurance premium ($768)

Education:
34th -- Estimated average salaries of public school teachers ($42,093)
13th -- Student-teacher ratio K-12 (13.8)
11th -- State appropriations for higher ed ($9.93 per $1000 pers. inc.)
36th -- Average ACT scores of 2006 tested graduates (20.6)

Natural Resources:
10th -- Electricity consumption per capita (16.63 megawatthours)
20th -- State per capita spending on natural resources ($111.75)

Transportation:
32nd -- State disbursements for highways per capita ($387.90)
14th -- Annual vehicle-miles of travel per capita (11,504)
37th -- Average daily traffic per lane (10,463 urban/3,812 all principal arterials)

Public Safety/Corrections:
45th -- State and local police and fire spending per capita ($160 police/$58 fire)
14th -- Violent crime rate per 100,000 residents (528)
13th -- Property crime rate per 100,000 residents (4,058)
31st -- State correctional spending per capita ($125.50)
12th -- Incarceration rate (479 per 100,000 residents)

Health & Welfare:
46th -- Welfare recipients as percentage of populaton (0.63%)
12th -- Percent of people w/out health insurance for the entire year (17.1%)
16th -- Infant mortality rate per 1,000 live births (7.5)
5th -- Teen birth rate per 1,000 population (60.3)
3rd -- Estimated percentage of population receiving social security (19.9%)
17th -- Percent of state medicaid expenditures for long-term care (37%)

I have a list of the sources the author cites in each of the categories -- shoot me an e-mail if you want them.

Arkansas Legislative Council (Update)

On the 171st Anniversary of statehood, the Legislative Council adopted an interim legislative resolution regarding an apology for the state's role in slavery this morning. It passed unanimously.

Update: Here's the Associated Press story.

Update II: And New York Times.

Arkansas's 171st Birthday

9:00 a.m. | Legislative Council monthly meeting (Rm. 171, Capitol) Agenda

9:00 a.m. | Lieutenant Governor Halter delivers opening address to the Arkansas Spinal Cord Commision

11:00 a.m. | Policy Making Committee of the Arkansas Legislative Council (Rm. 272, Capitol) Agenda

6:00 p.m. | State Capitol Rotunda
Governor Beebe speaks at the Arkansas State Police Recruit School Graduation

Little Rock makes a couple of lists

One good, one bad:

Forbes: Best U.S. Cities for Jobs -- No. 17

Time: U.S. Cities with most violent crimes per 1,000 people -- No. 8

The future of computing: Microsoft Surface

If you haven't seen this yet, take a gander at what your coffee table will look like in the not too distant future:

Farm Bureau legislative get-together

Here's a picture from Tuesday night's meeting here in Texarkana. More than 30 were in attendance.

Illegal immigration resolution fails in Benton County

The Benton County Quorum Court voted down a resolution to ban the county from contracting with businesses that employ illegal immigrants. This is only related to the legislature in that the General Assembly enacted mirroring legislation this year that prohibits state agencies from contracting with businesses that employ illegal immigrants. Act 157 of 2007 goes into effect at the end of next month.

Here's coverage of the meeting from the Arkansas News Bureau.