Monday marks the beginning of the 2012 fiscal session of the legislature, and I'm hopeful that we can convene at the Capitol and make quick work of balancing the budget.  

Arkansas was one of only four states in the country that did not experience a budget shortfall in 2011.  We are currently experiencing a budget surplus, which I am hopeful will allow us to continue cutting the grocery tax while running a lean and efficient state government. 

After attending pre-session budget hearings and reviewing Governor Beebe's proposed funding schedule, I anticipate modest/small increases to K-12 education funding. This funding increase will help continue our ongoing push to the top of the ranking among the states.  Education Week has Arkansas ranked 5th nationally this year in K-12 education.

One issue that has been at the forefront of Arkansas news this month is the problem with the Arkansas Forestry Commission, where 34 state employees had been laid off.  This has been difficult in my district, particularly in Sevier County, where the timber industry makes up a significant portion of the economy. It appears that we have found some money within the Agriculture Department to restore 15 of the lost firefighter jobs, including the position in Sevier County.

 

Little River Chamber of Commerce Banquet

I'd like to comment the Little River County Chamber of Commerce for a fanatastic awards banquet held last night.  I was proud to be a gold sponsor of the event, which hosted a record crowd of 378 people.  Chuck Barrett, the "Voice of the Razorbacks," was the speaker.  Here's a picture from the event:

As you may know, I have announced my campaign for re-election to Senate District 11.  Many media outlets have covered the announcement, including the Texarkana Gazette.  I look forward to working hard in an effort to continue moving southwest Arkansas forward.

While I will be in legislative session balancing the state's budget, I will be traveling back and forth to attend events in the district each evening.  Please let me know of any events you think I should attend.