The Arkansas Legislative Council voted in favor of a motion this morning to direct an additional $92.7 Million from the CARES Act funding to the Arkansas Ready for Business Grant Program. The program received more than 12,000 applications during the enrollment period. The funding requests for businesses totaled $147.7 million. The vote for the funding is in addition to $55 million previously approved. The grants will be used for expenses associated with reconfiguring business to meet recommended health and safety guidelines such as PPE, cleaning supplies, and signs.

The Arkansas Department of Health will be issuing a directive to allow recreational pools, splash pads, water parks, and swim beaches allowed to open May 22. The directive will include limiting capacity to 50%, 6-foot distancing in all areas, disinfecting high touch areas frequently, and not allowing entry for those with fever, symptoms, or known contact with a positive patient.

The Arkansas Economic Recovery Task Force launched has launched a new website  www.arkansasready.com. The website is designed to help business owners and consumers find industry-specific guidelines and resources.

2020 Covid-19_infographic_2020-05-08.pdf