Senator John Boozman

Bringing Civics to Life

Fri, 282 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

One of the greatest privileges of serving Arkansas in the United States Senate is welcoming Arkansans to the Capitol.

I especially enjoy giving tours to Natural State families and school groups who travel to Washington to see where the heart of federal legislative activity takes place. There is something special about watching a young Arkansan walk through the corridors of Congress for the first time and seeing their curiosity grow as they learn about our history and government.

For many of these students, a trip to Washington, D.C. is more than a field trip. It is an opportunity to bring civics lessons to life.

There is no substitute for seeing the public policy process in action. When students walk through the halls of Capitol, meet with their elected representatives or participate in programs that enrich their civics knowledge, they begin to understand that our government belongs to them and that they have an important role to play in shaping the future of our state and nation.

That is why I am always encouraged to see so many Arkansas students making the trip to the nation’s capital. Whether they are visiting with their classmates, participating in the Senate Page or internship programs, or touring the Capitol with their families, these experiences usually leave a lasting impression.

But you don’t have to leave Arkansas to experience civics in action. My Congressional Youth Cabinet and state office internships give Arkansas students opportunities to learn about the responsibilities of citizenship and the issues facing their communities. These experiences also show students that public service isn’t something that happens far away. It starts in their own communities and can take many different forms.

Civic education is especially important in a time when we all have access to more information in the palm of our hands through digital media. Understanding how our government works, how our Founding Fathers established our system of government and how citizens can make their voices heard gives young Arkansans and Americans the tools they need to be engaged citizens.

One of my favorite things to show Arkansans when they visit the Capitol is the important role our state has played in American history. Each state has two statues representing its contributions to our nation, and The Natural State is now represented by civil rights icon Daisy Bates and music legend Johnny Cash. They both stand in Statuary Hall, where thousands of visitors pass by every day.

Seeing the Capitol, walking the same halls as their federal legislators and learning about the people and events that shaped our nation can make history feel more real and accessible. It is a reminder that Arkansas has always had a place in the story of America, and our state continues to make its mark in profound and interesting ways.

I hope every Arkansas student who visits Washington, D.C. leaves with a greater appreciation for our country and a better understanding of their role in our democracy. They are not simply visitors to the Capitol. The Capitol is for the people and is theirs too.

It is always an honor to welcome Arkansans to Capitol Hill and share a place that belongs to us all. I look forward to continuing to open these doors to families, students and communities from across our great state and helping the next generation understand that they have an important role in carrying Arkansas and our nation forward.

Boozman, Alsobrooks, Armstrong, Blunt Rochester Introduce the Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act

Fri, 282 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Alan Armstrong (R-OK) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) have introduced the bipartisan Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act to streamline federal permitting for habitat restoration projects that produce net ecological benefits.

The legislation would establish a new permitting pathway under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act for projects that restore, enhance or rehabilitate degraded aquatic habitats. This streamlined process could help farmers and conservation partners move conservation projects forward more efficiently, including restoring wetlands on marginal farmland, reconnecting floodplains, stabilizing eroding streambanks and installing berms and water-control structures.

“Arkansas is The Natural State in part because we take great pride and care in the stewardship of the land, water and other resources. Restoring degraded habitats is an important part of conserving and strengthening them, so it should not be as hard or harder for projects that deliver a net ecological benefit to move forward. This bipartisan legislation streamlines the permitting process while maintaining strong environmental protections, giving farmers, landowners and conservationists greater certainty as they work to improve critical habitats,” said Boozman.

“I am proud to introduce the Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act alongside Senators Boozman, Blunt Rochester, and Armstrong. Our legislation will make habitat restoration more efficient, cut red tape, and create a predictable path for restoration projects. We know how important this is in Maryland as we continue to work to protect the Chesapeake Bay and support numerous wetlands restoration projects throughout the state that help to drive a booming outdoor economy,” said Alsobrooks.

"Modernizing our permitting system does not mean degrading the environment. In fact, we achieve far better ecological outcomes when private capital is directed into direct, on-the-ground conservation and habitat restoration rather than being wasted on endless litigation and administrative review loops. By streamlining Clean Water Act reviews for ecological restoration projects, we can unlock private investment for local communities and live up to the core standard I learned early in my career: we should always leave the land better than we found it. I’m proud to join Senators Boozman, Alsobrooks, and Blunt Rochester in advancing this bipartisan effort to cut red tape and make it easier to build projects that genuinely improve our environment,” said Armstrong.

“As the lowest-lying state, Delawareans know the importance of restoring our shorelines and mitigating flooding from natural hazards. However, current permitting guidelines can make it difficult to jumpstart projects that restore our natural ecosystems. I’m proud to support the bipartisan Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act to streamline projects that will strengthen our natural infrastructure, make our communities more resilient, and help preserve our environment for generations to come,” said Blunt Rochester.

This bill is supported by Ducks Unlimited (DU), the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership(TRCP), National Audubon Society and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).

“Restoration projects make our public and working lands healthier, and the permitting process should help expedite that work, not slow it down. The Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act would provide a more predictable path for conservation projects while maintaining a clear focus on measurable gains for habitat and wildlife. Ducks Unlimited appreciates the bipartisan leadership behind this legislation and its recognition that we can strengthen wetland functions and services while making on-the-ground restoration more achievable,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam.

“Healthy habitat is the foundation of healthy fish and wildlife populations and the sporting opportunities they support. The Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act seeks to provide a more predictable and efficient pathway for restoration projects while maintaining existing environmental safeguards. We appreciate Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus members Senators Boozman and Armstrong, and Senators Alsobrooks and Blunt Rochester for working together on ways to help important habitat restoration projects move from planning to implementation,” said CSF Senior Vice President and COO Taylor Schmitz.

“Every month a restoration project waits on a permit is a month hunters and anglers could lose habitat and opportunity. Habitat restoration practitioners can spend years navigating a permitting process built to scrutinize development rather than approve restoration. The Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act recognizes that restoration deserves its own path through that process. We thank Senators Boozman, Alsobrooks, Armstrong, and Blunt Rochester for introducing this bill and helping beneficial projects get on the ground faster,” said TRCP Vice President of Government Affairs Zach Bodhane.

“Our coasts, wetlands, and watersheds are critical resources for people, local communities and billions of birds, but they are at increasing risk from changing environmental conditions, making habitat restoration more vital than ever. This bill will strengthen those efforts by expanding important permitting tools so restoration can move forward at the scale and pace needed to make habitats and communities more resilient,” said National Audubon Society Vice President of Government Affairs Felice Stadler.

“As Director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, I strongly support the Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act of 2026 because it directly enhances our ability to execute critical conservation work. The Commission conducts numerous habitat restoration projects, and streamlining this permitting process will reduce the administrative hurdles that so often delay environmental progress. Ultimately, this legislation empowers us to manage our woods and waters more efficiently, ensuring healthier ecosystems for the environment and better outdoor experiences for Arkansas’s hunters and anglers,” said AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock.

The Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act would:

Establish a new nationwide Ecological Restoration Project (ERP) Permit under Sec. 404(e) of the CWA for projects that restore, enhance, or rehabilitate degraded habitats and result in a net ecological gain.
Direct the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to consult with federal environmental and conservation agencies to reduce duplicative reviews and preserve all existing environmental requirements.
Create a consistent permitting process with enforceable review timelines. For non-federal projects, USACE must determine application completeness within 30 days and verify the project within 45 days, with automatic permit verification if USACE misses the statutory deadline. Federal projects would submit a shorter summary report on the presumption of eligibility and may begin permitted work 30 days after the summary report’s submission.
Establish a 10-year permit term for the ERP and authorizes renewals and extensions without overburdensome frameworks. USACE currently issues nationwide permits on a five-year cycle, which can result in lengthy renewals and extensions.
Maintains strong environmental protections that nothing in the bill waives, limits or modifies requirements of the Endangered Species Act, the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act.

Click here to read the text of the bill.

Boozman, Blumenthal Introduce Bill to Strengthen Veterans Crisis Line, Support Personnel

Thu, 281 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) and Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) recently introduced the Veterans Crisis Line Support and Safety Act, bipartisan legislation that would improve mental health support and workplace conditions for Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) employees, many of whom are veterans themselves.

“The men and women providing instant and critical mental health support to veterans during some of their most difficult moments are an invaluable, life-saving resource. Many VCL employees are veterans themselves and understand the challenges those they serve are facing. I am proud this bipartisan legislation would guarantee their access to key tools and protections for their wellbeing, ensuring assistance for veterans in crisis is not delayed or denied,” said Boozman, a senior member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Chairman of the Military Construction and VA Appropriations Subcommittee.

“Veterans Crisis Line employees do lifesaving work every day in the most difficult circumstances. Unfortunately, these workers often face emotionally challenging situations. Our bipartisan bill will provide these employees much-needed mental health services and increased workplace protections to ensure they are given the support and space they need to serve veterans,” said Blumenthal.

The VCL provides a life-saving service for responding to veterans in crisis and is an important tool for preventing veteran suicide—offering 24/7 confidential assistance through call, text or chat support. The VCL Support and Safety Act was drafted with input from employees who provided testimony about being harassed in their jobs and needing additional workplace protections given the sensitive and emotional hardships of their work. Full impact statements from VCL responders can be found HERE, HERE and HERE.

Among its many provisions, the Veterans Crisis Line Support and Safety Act would:

Offer VCL employees free, confidential counseling and mental health care from licensed providers experienced in PTSD, trauma and compassion fatigue;
Establish peer support programs, critical incident stress debriefing and annual resiliency/burnout-prevention training;
Provide critical mental health services during and outside of scheduled work hours through VA and outside providers;
Implement reasonable limits on VCL employees’ workload and shift duration;
Require mandatory rest and recovery periods after high-risk or traumatic interactions;
Designate dedicated staff for complex or disruptive cases; and
Ensure staffing levels at the VCL are informed by data on the volume of calls and workforce assessments.

The Veterans Crisis Line Support and Safety Act is endorsed by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) National Veterans Affairs Council.

Click here to view text of the bill.

Arkansas Delegation: Working Families Tax Cuts Delivering $1 Billion to State’s Farm Families

Wed, 280 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR), Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), and Congressmen Rick Crawford (AR-01), French Hill (AR-02), Steve Womack (AR-03) and Bruce Westerman (AR-04) announced Arkansas farmers will begin receiving an estimated $1 billion in enhanced farm safety net benefits this month, thanks to improvements secured through the Working Families Tax Cuts.

“Agriculture is a cornerstone of Arkansas’s economy, supporting families, communities and business across our state. Farmers need the tools to manage risk as well as the certainty and predictability to plan ahead. The improvements to the farm safety net delivered through the Working Families Tax Cuts are an important step in providing Natural State producers the support they need to continue producing our nation’s food and fiber. Our delegation is pleased that these benefits are now getting in the hands of our farmers, and we’re building on that momentum to deliver a comprehensive five-year farm bill to be signed into law this year,” Boozman said.

“Last year’s Republican-led tax cuts included vital lifelines for Arkansas farmers after years of neglect under Joe Biden, including an estimated $1 billion in enhanced farm safety net benefits spearheaded by Senator Boozman. I’m pleased our farmers will receive these benefits this month to help them continue to grow, harvest, and operate,” Cotton said.

“Farmers have faced rising input costs and volatile markets for multiple years, and the existing safety net programs have not kept pace. Enhanced ARC and PLC payments, including updated statutory reference prices and modernized payment limits, will give farmers and producers the economic certainty they need to stay viable. I thank Sen. Boozman for his leadership in securing these investments for our ag economy. When our family farms are secure, our nation has a safe and dependable food supply,” Crawford said.

“Our farmers and ranchers need the tools and resources to grow, compete, and plan for the future. I am proud that Arkansas’s entire congressional delegation voted for the Working Families Tax Cuts, which supports our rural communities and strengthens the farm safety net, including with more than $1 billion now headed to producers across our state. We still have more work to do, including getting a strong Farm Bill across the finish line, but this is another example of how the Working Families Tax Cuts continues delivering for Arkansas,” Hill said.

“Our delegation delivered for all Arkansans by modernizing our nation’s most crucial farm safety net programs in the Working Families Tax Cuts law. Updated reference prices were long overdue, and this month, farmers will see the benefits of our work through increased support. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to pass this landmark legislation and deliver much-needed support to the men and women who work tirelessly to provide our nation’s food, fiber, and fuel,” Womack said.

“For generations, agriculture has defined Arkansas’ proud legacy. To maintain this heritage and support this multi-billion-dollar industry that drives our economy, our farmers need greater certainty. The Republican-backed improvements to the farm safety net payments provided under the reconciliation package are an excellent step toward that goal. Farming families from every corner of Arkansas are the backbone of our economy – feeding, clothing, and fueling millions. I want them to know their concerns are being heard in Congress. While I join my colleagues in celebrating this win for Arkansas agriculture, the fight to secure more long-lasting financial security for its future is far from over,” Westerman said.

The increased Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payments are part of the $13.8 billion approved by Congress to modernize the farm safety net and strengthen risk management tools for agricultural producers, more than doubling the support farmers were expected to receive before these changes.

Implementation for improvements to ARC and PLC follows the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s rollout of other Working Families Tax Cuts provisions, including expanded access to and eligibility for standing disaster programs such as the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) and Livestock Forage Program (LFP), in addition to measures making crop insurance more affordable.

Boozman, Klobuchar Lead Senate Recognition of National 4-H Week

Mon, 278 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), co-chairs of the Senate 4-H Caucus, applauded Senate passage of a resolution designating October 4-10, 2026 as National 4-H Week.

“4-H has made a lasting impact on countless Arkansans, including my three daughters, who benefited from their participation in this program. I’m proud to support 4-H as it continues developing future generations of leaders and equips young people with the skills and values they need to succeed,” Boozman said.

“Minnesota 4-H is preparing over 50,000 young Minnesotans to lead in their communities,” said Klobuchar. “I’m glad to partner with Senator Boozman to recognize the work of 4-H by celebrating this week as National 4-H Week. As co-chair of the 4-H Caucus, I’ll continue working with my colleagues to support exciting opportunities for youth engaged in agriculture.”

As the country’s largest youth development organization, 4-H operates as part of the Cooperative Extension System across land-grant universities. It reaches nearly six million young individuals through hands-on experiences in agriculture, science, health and civic engagement annually including 130,000 in Arkansas and 50,000 in Minnesota.

Every Child Deserves a Place to Call Home

Mon, 278 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

Every child deserves to grow up surrounded by people who care for them, support them and help them build a brighter future. Across Arkansas, countless individuals and families are stepping up to do just that.

I was proud to recognize Tiffany Wright as my 2026 Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) Angels in Adoption honoree. Through her work with the Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS) at the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Tiffany has dedicated herself to protecting children, supporting families and helping ensure young Arkansans can thrive. Her service reflects the commitment of so many who make a difference in the lives of children across The Natural State every day.

While we celebrate Tiffany’s contributions, her recognition also serves as a reminder of the continued need to support children and families in Arkansas’s foster care and adoption systems.

The CALL, a nonprofit serving foster and adoptive parents, reports that 3,387 children were in foster care in Arkansas as of January 2026. Behind that number are the unique stories, hopes and dreams of kids who deserve the chance to reach their full potential.

Foster care offers a temporary, safe environment as efforts are made to address the circumstances that led to a child’s placement. Whenever it is safe and possible, the goal is family reunification. When returning home becomes inadvisable, adoption and other permanent arrangements help provide stability. Each child’s circumstances are different, but their need for a safe and supportive home remains the same.

Meeting that need takes a network of dedicated people and organizations working together.

Foster parents open their homes to children during uncertain times. Adoptive families make a lifelong commitment to loving and caring for a child. Caseworkers help navigate complex and often difficult circumstances, while nonprofit organizations, churches, volunteers and community members help families access resources and encouragement along the way.

Project Zero, another Arkansas advocacy group, works alongside state partners to connect children awaiting adoption with permanent families. Through the Arkansas Heart Gallery, professional photographs and videos help introduce these kids and parents. In 2023, 163 children were matched with permanent families through its partnership with DCFS.

Enlisting and then supporting foster and adoptive families is equally important. Every Child Arkansas brings together organizations to recruit and serve foster parents throughout the state. Its initiatives equip families with the resources they need to care for children in their homes.

But supporting foster kids does not always require opening your home.

Organizations such as The CALL promote practical ways to serve. Providing meals, donating clothes and necessities, volunteering or helping meet a child’s everyday needs can make a meaningful difference. Even small acts of kindness can help families better adjust and remind children that their communities care about them.

As Arkansans, we take pride in looking out for our neighbors and stepping up when someone needs a helping hand.

Few responsibilities are more important than ensuring our children grow up safe, supported and loved. Through my work with CCAI, I look forward to strengthening more families and improving outcomes for children while acknowledging the entire network actively engaged on their behalf.

The work of Tiffany and so many others reminds us that making a difference does not always require a grand gesture. It begins with a willingness to serve, seeing the need and contributing however you can to meet it.

Together, we will grow this movement and build a stronger future for Arkansas children and families.

Boozman Recognizes 2026 Angels in Adoption Honoree Tiffany Wright

Thu, 274 Oct 2026 12:00:00 EST

U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized Tiffany Wright as a 2026 Angels in Adoption honoree for her longstanding commitment to improving outcomes for children and families across Arkansas.

Wright serves as the Director of the Division of Children and Family Services at the Arkansas Department of Human Services. She oversees programs focused on child safety, abuse and neglect prevention, foster care and adoption. Since joining the division in 2009 as a family service worker, she has dedicated her career to protecting vulnerable children, supporting families and helping those in foster care find stability and thrive.

“Tiffany has consistently and compassionately shown up for Arkansas children and families, often during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” Boozman said. “Her dedication to creating better futures for children and giving families the support they need reflects the very best of public service. I appreciate all she has done and continues to do for Natural State kids, families and communities.”

Throughout her tenure, Wright has worked to strengthen foster family recruitment and adoption efforts across the state, including through the Project Zero Heart Gallery, which shares the stories of children in foster care to help connect them with adoption-minded parents. In 2025, she took that commitment a step further with a pledge that saw her run 179 miles, one for every child in Arkansas’s foster care system awaiting adoption.

The Angels in Adoption program is coordinated by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI), a nonpartisan organization that works to raise awareness about children in need of safe, loving homes. Members of Congress select honorees who have made extraordinary contributions to adoption, permanency and child welfare.

“Every day, across the country, people are doing extraordinary work to help children and families find safety, stability, and permanency, and Angels in Adoption gives us an opportunity to shine a national spotlight on that work,” CCAI Executive Director Kate McLean said. “In Arkansas, Director Tiffany Wright exemplifies the kind of dedicated leadership and commitment to children that this program was created to recognize. We are proud to celebrate her contributions and to highlight the important work happening in communities across the country to ensure every child has the opportunity to find a permanent family.”

Boozman annually recognizes an Arkansan or Arkansas organization for outstanding contributions to adoption, foster care and the well-being of children and families.

Boozman Statement on Senate Passage of Protect College Sports Act

Tue, 272 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement after the Senate passage of the Protect College Sports Act:

“I was pleased to support passage of the Protect College Sports Act. This bipartisan legislation will help student athletes succeed on and off the field while establishing clear, sensible rules that preserve the integrity of collegiate athletics. As a former Razorback, I along with so many Arkansans want current and future generations of young adults to have the opportunity to compete and succeed while also preserving what makes it so special. This bill will help end the chaos, stabilize college sports and ensure players can still share in the benefits they generate.”

Background
The Protect College Sports Act would restore a national rulebook for college athletics, establishing clear, consistent rules for student-athletes and universities. The legislation has broad support from more than 370 colleges and universities nationwide, including the University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, University of Central Arkansas and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

The legislation would:

Limit transfers to one penalty-free transfer, with additional transfers permitted under specific circumstances including if the coach leaves, if the program is canceled, or if the athlete is a victim of sexual assault or harassment. If an athlete wishes to transfer outside of these circumstances, he or she will have to redshirt, meaning the athlete will sit out for one year;
Set an eligibility standard of five years, with a cap at age 24;
Prohibit fraudulent Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and recruiting inducements to get a student athlete to enroll or transfer in a school, as well as create a uniform NIL framework that nullifies the current patchwork of inconsistent, conflicting state laws;
Provide greater health and safety protections to athletes; and
Create national rules for revenue sharing that will foster competitive balance.

Boozman has been a strong advocate for the Protect College Sports Act. To read his recent column on the legislation, click here.

ICYMI: Boozman Touts Paid Leave Legislation on The Hill’s Future of Supporting American Families Panel

Mon, 271 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined The Hill for a panel discussion on the future of supporting American families. Alongside Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and The Hill Contributing Editor Kathleen Koch, Boozman discussed his bipartisan More Paid Leave for More Americans Act that would address gaps in access to paid leave by giving states and employers a flexible framework to establish paid leave programs and collaborate on administrative challenges.

On why he is excited about the legislation and its features:

“The world is totally different than it was even a few years ago. Everybody’s working, everybody has to work. There’s a lot of smaller companies that want to [offer paid leave] but they’re overwhelmed by the prospect of going through all the hoops, all the regulation that you have now. And the other part, too, is making it where you have a framework, but it’s flexible. Arkansas is a state that has a lot of elderly in it, so we’re seeing a lot of elder care, that’s more important. And then, as the congresswoman said, the fact that you sort out these interstate problems. You know, so many companies have employees in [multiple] states, and you start trying to figure all that out. So it’s just a good step in the right direction.”

On Arkansas leading on paid leave for teachers and state employees:

“Arkansas is a very conservative state and this has been really appreciated by all. If you polled it, it would be way, way up there. People understand this is desperately needed. There’s only a few states that’ve done this. So by them doing it, and I think Sarah Huckabee Sanders, again, leading that charge is good in the sense that conservatives look at that. And I think that, because they do it, other states will fall in line.”

On employers’ receptiveness to the concept:

“It’s important that, not only does it give the states flexibility, it gives the employers flexibility. That’s what they want. But you have to do these things to compete. A smaller business can’t compete with a bigger business that provides a similar service because of the fact that the bigger business can sometimes do these things, and the small business is frustrated because they just don’t have the ability to get started. That’s what this does. I think most businesses want their employees to be happy, successful, have a good attitude, be able to make things work. And this is one of the things that I think is crucial as we go forward as a society, with the increased demands on everybody. As a whole, I think they’re excited about having the opportunity. For the first time they’ll be able to have a framework. It’s not going to cost them an arm and a leg to get into it.”

On the importance of an incremental approach:

“It’s a three-year pilot. It’s a great step in the right direction. It allows us to look at unintended consequences, and I’m sure there will be some that I’m sure we can fix as we go forward. I got involved with this because of maternal health and because I’m an optometrist. You know, when you look at healthcare bankruptcies, maternal health –– if you have paid leave there’s 50 percent less hospitalizations of the mother, 47 percent less hospitalizations of the child. Having a better workforce, a happier workforce, a more productive workforce –– that’s really what it’s all about.”

On the outlook for the bill:

“We have a bill. It’s not really complicated. We’ve got agreement. We’ll work out our differences. That’s a good recipe to start with, that doesn’t happen very often. The time is right. You can’t fix a problem unless you can measure it. I think this is something we will be able to measure. Paid leave lessens a lot of other problems.”

Farm Bill 2.0 One Step Closer to Becoming Law

Mon, 271 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

For years, Arkansas farmers, ranchers and producers have been calling for a modernized Farm Bill. Economic conditions have changed dramatically since the last bill was signed into law in 2018.

That’s why Congress, led by Republicans on the agriculture committees in the House and Senate, made critical enhancements to farm programs in the Working Families Tax Cuts. The historic improvements to the farm safety net better protect against economic uncertainty and market volatility to ensure the next generation can continue to farm. We increased investments in farm programs, crop insurance, trade, research and other important initiatives for rural America.

This was Farm Bill 1.0. But because we have been committed to delivering a comprehensive farm bill, we didn’t stop there. So much of this year has been spent developing Farm Bill 2.0 to provide additional resources that farmers and rural communities need to thrive.

This month, I was proud to lead the Senate Agriculture Committee in advancing Farm Bill 2.0, the Agriculture Act of 2026. Committee passage is an important step, but there is more work to do before it gets to the president’s desk.

Hours before the bill passed the committee, I met with Arkansas producers who shared the importance of this legislation and how Farm Bill 2.0 will help ensure a stable future for the agriculture industry and rural America alike. These policies reflect today’s realities and provide producers with the tools and certainty necessary for them to keep producing the food, fiber and fuel our nation depends on.

Farm Bill 2.0 was shaped from the ground up by farmers, ranchers, forest landowners, conservationists and rural community leaders. The legislation incorporates more than 100 bipartisan priorities and includes provisions intended to strengthen farm programs, modernize agricultural financing, enhance conservation and bolster rural communities.

The voices of Arkansas producers have been particularly important in this process. In a social media campaign urging support for Farm Bill 2.0, we featured aquaculture leader Mike Freeze and Arkansas Farm Bureau President Dan Wright who emphasized the ongoing challenges and why the legislation matters to their operations.

Arkansans understand that the Farm Bill reaches beyond fields and pastures. For rural communities, it plays a critical role in modernizing or building the infrastructure that helps deliver affordable energy, clean drinking water, high-speed broadband and essential services like reliable health care and childcare.

Communities in our state, like Mulberry, have benefited from U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development programs that help fund vital infrastructure. In August, I had the opportunity to congratulate city leaders on the repairs they made to expand capacity at its water treatment plant thanks to assistance delivered through this initiative. Farm Bill 2.0 will allow more of our rural communities to undertake these types of projects.

I will continue advocating for rural water infrastructure and other investments that help these communities meet basic needs and build for the future.

That is why we must get this legislation across the finish line now, not later.

Farm Bill 2.0 is about giving farmers, ranchers, rural families and communities the resources and certainty they need to succeed. Arkansas farmers cannot wait any longer.

KARK: Farm Bill 2.0 Sponsored by Arkansas Senator John Boozman Advances in Senate

Mattison Gafner — Mon, 271 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

LITTLE ROCK—A major overhaul of the nation’s farm programs is moving forward after the Senate Agriculture Committee approved Farm Bill 2.0 in a party-line vote.

Arkansas Senator John Boozman, chairman of the committee, helped lead the legislation. Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate to cast the deciding vote.

The five-year proposal would strengthen crop insurance and other risk-management programs, expand conservation and specialty crop assistance, and provide more funding to help farmers sell products overseas.

It also includes investments in rural broadband, drinking water, food processing and health care, along with year-round E15 sales.

Democrats opposed the bill over a provision requiring states to help cover some SNAP costs. They argued states need more time to reduce SNAP error rates.

The bill now heads toward a vote by the full Senate. If approved, lawmakers would still have to reconcile it with the House version before it could reach the president.

Click here to read this story on KARK's website.

Boozman, Duckworth Lead Bill to Enhance Support of Women Veterans

Wed, 266 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

The VOICE for Women Veterans Act would require a comprehensive look at VA care, benefits and services to identify areas for improvement...

Restoring the Rulebook for College Athletics

Mon, 264 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

College athletics have changed dramatically in recent years, but the rules governing student athletes have struggled to keep pace.

Earlier this week, the Senate took an important step by voting to advance the bipartisan Protect College Sports Act. This legislation would establish a clear national standard for name, image and likeness (NIL) as well as compensation; create uniform rules for athlete eligibility, transfers, scholarship and health protections; and overall help preserve the true embodiment of what it means to be a student athlete.

Our favorite college players work incredibly hard to represent their universities and communities. They deserve clear rules and meaningful protections, and we have an opportunity to bring greater certainty to college sports while keeping student athletes at the center of the conversation.

I know firsthand the dedication it takes to compete as a college athlete.

As a former football player for the University of Arkansas, I experienced the demands of balancing academics with the pressure to compete on the field at grueling practices and on game days. Participating in sports teaches discipline, teamwork and perseverance. And in some cases, it creates opportunities that can have a lasting impact long after an athlete’s playing days are over.

That is why it is so important that we get this right. Today’s student athletes are navigating a college sports landscape that looks very different from the one I navigated. Competition is fiercer, demands are higher and the pressure to perform extends well beyond fans in the stands on any given gameday. While the growth of NIL and changes to transfer and eligibility rules have created new opportunities, they have also brought uncertainty and inconsistency from one school and conference to another.

In Arkansas, college sports is a way of life for many of us. While we understand they will change with the times, there is widespread concern with the risk of losing what makes them special.

The current status quo of a conflicting patchwork of different state laws, conference policies and NCAA rules threatens to undermine the integrity of the college sports we all know and love. Athletes, coaches and universities need to know what rules apply to whom and what they can expect –– all in a way that’s fair.

The Protect College Sports Act would help provide that clarity. The legislation’s reforms are designed to end the chaos in a way that, as Razorbacks Basketball Coach John Calipari recently said is “good for all sports, all athletes and all conferences.” Just as importantly, it would strengthen health and safety protections for the students who dedicate countless hours representing their schools.

We should not lose sight of what makes college athletics special.

For many student athletes, competing in college is more than what happens on the scoreboard. It allows them to earn an education, develop critical skills, represent their communities and prepare for the next chapter of their lives. Now, it also gives them a chance to be entrepreneurial and share in the economic benefits.

But that must happen in an environment built to ensure these opportunities remain available for future generations.

Arkansas’s proud tradition and passion for college athletics is as strong today as ever. This may be a new era, but the young men and women donning their school’s colors deserve a system that is transparent, protects their wellbeing and empowers them to focus on what brought them to campus in the first place — earning an education while also pursuing excellence on the field, court, track or any other venue.

I am confident the Protect College Sports Act, which has strong support from both sides of the aisle, can provide that certainty and preserve what we all agree makes it such a meaningful identity for the fans as well as the student athletes.

Boozman Highlights Arkansas Ag Voices in Push for Farm Bill 2.0

Tue, 258 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) is continuing his push to advance Farm Bill 2.0 by highlighting the voices of farmers, conservationists and rural Americans in The Natural State and nationwide. These men and women represent all those who rely on a strong, comprehensive and modern Farm Bill to support their operations, families and communities.

Boozman has been featuring real-world stories from the people who feed and fuel America, steward our natural resources and strengthen rural communities in a social media campaign launched last month. The effort has included several Arkansans’ perspectives and showcases why they urgently need the provisions included in Farm Bill 2.0.

“In developing Farm Bill 2.0, we’ve gone directly to the men, women, families and communities impacted by these policies to hear what’s working, what’s not and what they need from a modernized Farm Bill. Their experiences and ideas helped shape this legislation. Farm Bill 2.0 is about giving the people who produce our food, protect our land and sustain our rural communities the tools and certainty they need to succeed. These stories, including key voices from Arkansas, make clear just how necessary Farm Bill 2.0 is to deliver long-term resources and stability. The committee must advance this bill, and I look forward to doing so this week,” said Boozman.

“As fish farmers, our operations rely heavily on maintaining stable water levels and managing high input costs, especially when extreme weather hits. Farm Bill 2.0’s ELAP improvements are a gamechanger for aquaculture producers like us. By helping offset the heavy financial burdens of transportation costs and feed during severe droughts or adverse conditions, this program provides a crucial safety net,” said Mike Freeze, Arkansas fish farmer.

“I understand firsthand that managing soaring input costs and keeping our operations capitalized in today’s economic climate is an ongoing challenge. Farm Bill 2.0 addresses these modern realities head-on by updating vital credit and loan limits, such as Farm Service Agency operating and ownership loans. Getting a fully modernized farm bill across the finish line in the Senate is crucial to providing farm families with the financial stability and risk-management tools we desperately need to keep producing,” said Arkansas Farm Bureau President Dan Wright.

“As an emergency physician in rural Arkansas, I’ve delivered babies in an ER because the nearest labor and delivery unit closed years ago. Farm Bill 2.0 takes that seriously — a Commission on Rural Maternal Health, financing tools for rural hospitals and EMS, and the broadband that makes telehealth possible. I’m grateful to Chairman Boozman and the Senate Agriculture Committee for keeping rural access at the center of this bill,” said Lee Johnson, physician and Arkansas State Representative.

The #FacesOfFarmBill campaign puts producers and rural Americans at the center of the farm bill conversation, sharing their stories of how Farm Bill 2.0 would impact their operations, communities and livelihoods as well as help them navigate the challenges they face.

Farm Bill 2.0 is built for farmers, for rural communities and for the future. The legislation includes more than 100 bipartisan priorities designed to strengthen agriculture, support rural America and provide producers with greater certainty. Boozman announced his intention to reconvene the committee to resume consideration of the legislation at a business meeting on Wednesday, September 16.

To follow the campaign and read the stories from the people who are relying on an updated Farm Bill, follow #FacesOfFarmBill and visit the committee’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Farmers and rural advocates in Arkansas have shared what Farm Bill 2.0 means to them in the #FacesOfFarmBill campaign.

Boozman, Gillibrand, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Commemorating 25th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 Terror Attacks

Tue, 258 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and a bipartisan group of their colleagues in leading a Senate resolution honoring the victims, first responder and survivors of 9/11, as well as the service members who defended the United States in the aftermath, amid commemorations of the 25th anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and United Airlines Flight 93.

The resolution pays tribute to the 2,977 individuals killed. It also honors the 343 firefighters, 72 law enforcement officers, 8 emergency medical technicians and paramedics and 55 military personnel at the Pentagon who sacrificed their lives responding to the attacks, alongside the passengers and crew of the hijacked airliners. The resolution also recognizes the charitable foundations, nonprofit organizations, labor organizations, faith-based organizations and community groups that have faithfully served survivors and families of victims.

“Twenty-five years ago, radical terrorists attacked our nation, taking 2,977 innocent lives and forever changing America. In the aftermath, Americans stood united by a shared love of country and a determination to protect our way of life. I am proud to join my colleagues in honoring the memory of those we lost and reaffirming our commitment to never forget,” said Boozman.

“Twenty-five years ago, our nation experienced tragedy, but in our darkest hour, we saw the extraordinary courage and resilience of the American people. As we mark 25 years since September 11, 2001, we owe it to the victims, the heroes who ran into the burning towers, and the military personnel who answered the call to serve to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. This resolution reaffirms our commitment to standing with survivors and their families, supporting the programs that continue to provide critical care, and vowing to never forget,” said Gillibrand.

The resolution is also cosponsored by Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA).

Click here to read the resolution.

25 Years Later, Arkansans Will Never Forget 9/11

Mon, 257 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

Twenty-five years ago, radical terrorists shockingly and ruthlessly attacked our nation. In a matter of hours, 2,977 innocent lives were taken, families were changed forever and America entered a new era.

A quarter of a century later, we still remember those lost and honor the heroes who ran toward danger that fateful day.

One of those victims was Sara Low, a 28-year-old flight attendant from Batesville who was working on American Airlines Flight 11. After terrorists seized control of the plane, authorities believe Sara gave her telephone calling card to fellow flight attendant Madeline Amy Sweeny, who used it to relay critical information to the ground. Flight 11 ultimately crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, killing everyone aboard.

Sara’s story reminds us that September 11 was not something that happened somewhere far away to people we did not know. It affected families and communities across our country, including right here in Arkansas.

So it is no surprise that Arkansans continue gathering to mark its impact.

Mountain Home observed the anniversary at its Veterans Plaza around a memorial that includes a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, continuing a tradition of solemnly reflecting as well as educating new generations.

At Little Rock Air Force Base, airmen, families and community members participated in a 9/11 Memorial 5K and Ruck at Heritage Park before collectively acknowledging the service and sacrifice in the attack and military operations that followed.

At the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, the Army and Air Force ROTC programs once again honored the fallen through a memorial stair climb. They scaled the equivalent of 110 flights of stairs, symbolizing the journey first responders made to save lives in the Twin Towers.

These acts of remembrance are important. A generation of Americans has now been born since September 11, 2001. Many young people have no personal memory of that morning. They know 9/11 as a moment in history, not as the day when the world watched the unimaginable unfold on television or waited anxiously for word from a loved one.

It is our responsibility to make sure they understand what happened and why it matters.

We must always teach our children and grandchildren about our fellow Americans who never made it home. We must remember the firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, military members and civilians who risked their lives to help others. We must remember the passengers on Flight 93 who fought back against their hijackers and prevented even greater loss of life.

We must also remember how America responded.

In the days and weeks after the attacks, Americans came together in ways that transcended political parties, geographic boundaries and other differences that often divide us. Neighbors helped neighbors. Strangers reached out to strangers. Americans stood together, united by a shared love of country and a determination to protect our way of life.

The spirit of unity and service is part of the legacy we must preserve.

I have consistently joined my colleagues in supporting legislation to commemorate anniversaries of 9/11 and honor the memory of those who were lost. But our commitment to remembering cannot end with a ceremony, a resolution or an anniversary. The best way to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice is to carry their example forward.

We can do that by serving our communities, supporting our first responders who continue to answer the call and standing behind the men and women in uniform who defend our nation. In cherishing and protecting the freedoms we hold dear, we sustain the work of these heroes.

The lessons of September 11 remain with us a quarter-century on. The world has changed, but the courage and resolve displayed that day will not be forgotten.

From Batesville to Mountain Home, from Little Rock Air Force Base to our college campuses, Arkansans continue to show that we will remember, honor and serve.

We will never forget Sara Low and every American whose life was taken that day. And we will never forget the strength, compassion and resilience that day revealed.

I am proud that The Natural State continues our efforts to ensure we never forget.

Arkansas Delegation Applauds Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Announcement

Tue, 251 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

CMS Awards $149.3 Million to Expand Telehealth and Increase Access to Specialty Care and Preventive Screenings in Rural Arkansas...

Flying Razorbacks Continue Executing Evolving Missions

Mon, 250 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

The Flying Razorbacks of the Arkansas Air National Guard have sat in many different pilot seats over seven decades. Throughout that history, our airmen have flown everything from modified bombers in the 1950s to fighter aircraft like the F-4, F-16 and A-10.

But their current mission is the most unique yet and provides a glimpse into what 21st century military service looks like for some servicemembers.

The 188th Wing recently celebrated 10 years of its newest mission conducting intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and precision strike operations with the MQ-9A Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA), commonly known as “Reapers.” It is a notable anniversary when you look at the unit’s incredible transition from its fighting wing assignment – the last of which provided close-air support via the A-10 fighter, with its airframe first introduced in 1977 – to a state-of-the-art, high-security operation with multiple primary mission sets, including global operations performed 24/7 by pilots and intelligence officers.

The fact that these airmen now go home to their families every night instead of serving overseas for weeks and months at a time is perhaps the most prominent difference between them and previous generations of Flying Razorbacks personnel. I was struck by that contrast as well as several other observations while reflecting on this milestone.

Another was the tremendous dedication that brought this mission here to the River Valley. I am so proud of the community and servicemembers who showed once again that Fort Smith is an incredible place with a deep commitment to our armed forces.

I also continue to be impressed by the accomplishments of these guardsmen in such a short period of time. The mission did not exist at Ebbing Air National Guard Base until 2016, yet the Flying Razorbacks have already completed 3,123 sorties, logged almost 60,000 flight hours and supported nine personnel recovery events.

At the anniversary celebration, commanders shared their pride at the unit’s incredible reputation within the U.S. Air Force and cited many examples when commanders on the ground in other parts of the world have requested the Flying Razorbacks for a mission. The Wing’s professionalism and success rate is legendary and even earned its 184th Attack Squadron honors as the best RPA unit in the nation last year.

But beyond this unit’s incredible work, I hope Arkansans will also appreciate the unique challenge of this mission and what it means for modern military service.

In the past, we would send our citizen-airmen off on a deployment and pray they came home safe to us. They would be focused and on-mission while on active duty and then work on the challenge of returning home to normal routines when their tour ended.

That is not always the case now. The airmen of the 188th are employed-in-place or, essentially, deployed-in-place –– every day of the week. They carry out critical missions we hear about on the news and then go home for supper or attend a t-ball game. They cannot even tell their spouse what they did at work that day.

This daily deployment is a new challenge for our men and women in uniform and something I will keep in mind every time I visit with them.

Stories and anniversaries like that of the Flying Razorbacks remind us that freedom is never free. I hope all Arkansans will continue to support our men and women in uniform every day with the knowledge that they are defending our nation both abroad and in our own backyard.

Arkansas Business: Expanding Family Leave

EDITORIAL — Tue, 244 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

"This bill acknowledges the facts of family life and deserves Congress’ support"...

Greenhead Magazine: Friends in High Places - Arkansas legislators keep an eye on the hunt

Brent Birch — Mon, 243 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

Arkansas's delegation in the nation's capital has hungers' interests in mind...