The Tax Reform and Relief Act of 2017 has now been signed into law.
Today, the Governor signed the identical House and Senate bills (HB1159 and SB115) which lower the income tax rate for Arkansans making below $21,000 a year. It also creates a task force to explore future tax reform.
The House State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee advanced a bill requiring that if a monument is to be placed or removed on the grounds of the State Capitol, it must first receive legislative approval before the process begins.
Currently, the process can begin with the Capitol Arts and Grounds Commission. If HB1273 is passed, the commission will still have input on placement and materials used for monuments.
The State Agencies committee also advanced legislation designed to clarify the process when filling a vacant U.S. Senate seat. HB1279 makes clear if there is a vacancy, the Governor would appoint a person to fill the vacancy until the next General Election. If the vacancy occurs within 4 months of the next election, then the appointee would fill the term until the following General Election.
The House reconvenes on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.