Arkansas

2023 Arkansas Legislation May Reduce Child Labor Violation Probes, Report Reveals

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Little Rock, Arkansas – A recent law passed in Arkansas in 2023 has sparked concerns over its potential impact on child labor protections. Critics argue that this legislation could diminish the state’s ability to effectively investigate violations of child labor laws. The law in question, which garnered significant bipartisan support, adjusts several key provisions related to the employment of minors. Among the most contentious changes are alterations to the state’s oversight and penalty structures for employers found violating child labor regulations. Under the new statute, fines for companies infringing upon child labor laws have been … Read more

Federal Judge Upholds Arkansas Amendment Restricting Casino License, Cherokee Nation to Continue Legal Battle

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A recent ruling by a federal judge has sustained the results of an Arkansas ballot measure that eliminates the state-granted license for a casino in Pope County, which had been planned by Cherokee Nation Entertainment. The decision came swiftly on the heels of the constitutional amendment’s approval by voters, with the judge denying a temporary restraining order sought by the Cherokee Nation Entertainment shortly before the amendment went into effect. The contentious amendment, voted into law on November 5, has sparked a legal battle over constitutional rights, according to the Cherokee … Read more

Arkansas Community and Activists Rally for Tougher Distracted Driving Laws

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Little Rock, Ark. — Advocacy groups in Arkansas, spearheaded by Families Against Distracted Driving (FADD), are campaigning for more rigorous legislation to combat the rising peril of distracted driving. This push comes amid growing concerns about the safety risks associated with mobile device usage behind the wheel. The statewide initiative aims to tighten existing laws and introduce new measures that ensure drivers keep their attention solely on the road. The call for action is bolstered by statistics indicating that distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of road accidents and fatalities across the state. … Read more

Legal Victory Partial for Companies in Arkansas Lithium Royalty Dispute

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Little Rock, AR – In a significant legal proceeding on Friday, an administrative law judge hinted at likely siding partially with a group of five companies that petitioned the state Oil and Gas Commission to establish a royalty rate for lithium production from the Smackover formation in southern Arkansas. This area is emerging as a hotbed for lithium extraction, vital for battery production. The companies, seeking clarity and stability regarding the financial terms of lithium extraction, hope a fixed royalty rate will make investment and operations planning more predictable. Lithium, predominantly used in batteries for … Read more