This week, the Arkansas House of Representatives passed several significant pieces of legislation focused on maternal health, breast cancer treatment, and state employee compensation.

HB1004 aims to extend Medicaid coverage to postpartum mothers for one year after childbirth, while HB1826 ensures that insurance covers births at licensed birthing centers, helping to expand access to care in rural areas. Additionally, HB1333 requires insurance to cover breastfeeding and lactation consultant services.

In another important development, SB392 adjusts the classification and compensation of state employees to bring their salaries in line with labor market rates, ensuring fairness in pay.

The House also passed SB83, a health-related bill that mandates health benefit plans in the state to provide coverage for all types of breast reconstruction surgery starting January 1, 2026. This legislation guarantees that any surgery considered the best treatment by a healthcare professional and in consultation with the patient will be covered, whether following trauma, the loss of breast tissue due to disease, or a mastectomy. Moreover, HB1859 was approved to amend current laws on mastectomies by requiring health plans to cover the use of artificial or biological mesh and nerve grafts in reconstruction surgeries.

The Arkansas House Revenue and Taxation Committee moved forward with HB1685, which proposes eliminating the state's 0.125% sales tax on groceries starting January 1, 2026. In addition, HB1631, which seeks to phase out the state's soft drink tax, also advanced through the committee.

Furthermore, the House State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee advanced HJR1018, a proposed Constitutional Amendment known as the Citizens Only Voting Amendment, which is expected to be considered on the House floor next week.

The House will reconvene on Monday, with plans to complete its business for the 2025 Regular Session by April 16. You can watch all House meetings at arkansashouse.org.