Arkansas Legislature approves $6.2B budget plan, sentencing overhaul

The Arkansas Legislature has approved a $6.2 billion budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year, which includes a major overhaul of the state's sentencing laws. The budget plan, which was passed by both the House and Senate, includes funding for education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects, as well as a number of criminal justice reforms. One of the most significant changes in the budget plan is the overhaul of the state's sentencing laws. The new laws will reduce the sentences for some nonviolent offenses, such as drug possession and theft, and will allow judges more discretion in sentencing. The goal of the reforms is to reduce the state's prison population, which is currently one of the highest in the country. The budget plan also includes funding for education, including a $100 million increase in funding for K-12 schools. This funding will be used to increase teacher salaries, improve school facilities, and provide additional resources for students. The plan also includes funding for higher education, including a $10 million increase in funding for the state's community colleges. In addition to education, the budget plan includes funding for healthcare, including a $20 million increase in funding for Medicaid. This funding will be used to provide healthcare services to low-income Arkansans, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly. The budget plan also includes funding for infrastructure projects, including a $35 million increase in funding for the state's highways and bridges. This funding will be used to repair and improve the state's roads and bridges, which are in need of significant repairs. Overall, the Arkansas Legislature's approval of the $6.2 billion budget plan is a significant step forward for the state. The plan includes funding for a number of important initiatives, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects, as well as a major overhaul of the state's sentencing laws. These reforms will help to improve the lives of Arkansans and make the state a better place to live and work.