On Tuesday, the Arkansas House of Representatives passed several bills addressing a range of issues, from education and healthcare to taxation and public safety.

Among the measures approved was HB1594, which aims to create a Farmer Sales Tax Identification Card. This initiative directs the secretary to provide eligible farmers with the card, helping retailers properly account for nontaxable sales related to farming. In the realm of education, HB1696 was passed to establish a core curriculum for state-supported institutions of higher learning. Additionally, the House approved HB1062, known as the Teacher and Student Protection Act of 2025, which is designed to safeguard both students and educators from recurring violent or abusive behavior in schools.

HB1004 seeks to require Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers for one year after giving birth. This bill also directs DHS to seek federal approval to use Children’s Health Insurance Program funding to pay for postpartum coverage.

In another health-related measure, the House passed SB83, requiring that, beginning January 1, 2026, health benefit plans in the state provide coverage for all modalities, types, and techniques of breast reconstruction surgery. The bill ensures that any surgery deemed the best course of treatment by a healthcare professional—consistent with medical standards and in consultation with the patient—is covered, whether the procedure follows trauma, loss of breast tissue due to disease, or a mastectomy. Additionally, HB1859 was passed to amend existing laws concerning mastectomies by mandating that health plans cover the use of artificial or biological mesh and nerve grafts in reconstruction surgeries.

The House approved HB1821 to establish a more sustainable system of property insurance for public schools, higher education institutions, and state-owned property. Additionally, HB1706 was passed to prohibit the use of ranked-choice voting in elections.

Other bills passed include HB1187, which authorizes licensure by endorsement for marriage and family therapists, and HB1476, which creates a wine direct shipper’s license. The House also approved HB1751, which mandates that applicants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits who have been deemed job-ready must engage in job search activities while their applications are processed.

Finally, the House passed HB1886, designating the Labrador Retriever as the official canine of the State of Arkansas.