Natural State Happenings

From agriculture to education, maternal health and beyond, Arkansans are paving the future for a stronger, safer, healthier and more prosperous Natural State. I was once again reminded of that during visits with new and familiar faces during the August In-State Work Period. It was refreshing to hear about and see the creativity and innovation Arkansans bring to solving challenges not only for our state, but our nation as a whole.

I was pleased to continue collaborating with our state’s healthcare leaders, particularly on the issue of improving maternal health — an initiative that I believe can be solved through partnership and focus. I was honored to meet with leadership from the Arkansas Hospital Association and UAMS in support of the new, state-of-the-art Arkansas Center for Women and Infants’ Health for which I secured federal funding to help establish. By strengthening the ongoing cooperation and focus, I know we can improve outcomes for Natural State moms and babies. I am particularly appreciative of the active Role Dr. Nirvana Manning has played as a tireless champion and trusted voice for women’s health, and look forward to more hard work and success ahead.

Speaking with Dr. Nirvana Manning at the Maternal Health Roundtable

Addressing Natural State Hospital and Health Care Leaders

Whole health extends beyond our tireless doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals to our members of the agricultural industry. Natural State farmers work tirelessly to feed, fuel and clothe the world, and I was proud to talk with them earlier this month and receive the 2025 Friend of Farm Credit Award. As Chairman of the Senate Ag Committee, I'm proud to fight for the flexibility, resources and support ag producers need to continue their vital work. We discussed emerging challenges farmers are facing, such as the rise of the new world screw worm and legislative wins for relief passed in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. These conversations are vital to ensuring our farmers remain equipped to meet the demands of today and tomorrow.

Accepting the Friend of Farm Credit Award from Jeff Rutledge

Meeting w/ Natural State farmers about the modernized farm safety net & other ag policy issues

August also marks Back to School Month – a time to celebrate Arkansas’s outstanding educators, young learners and the afterschool resources that help Natural State students reach their full potential with access to the tools, resources and support necessary to do so. As an alumnus of the Boys and Girls Club, I know firsthand how this organization has the ability to change and better lives. It was an honor to visit the new Fort Smith Teen Center and learn about its programs and opportunities that continue empowering young people. I enjoyed meeting some students who were there learning about and experimenting with drones and the educators devoting their time and energy to providing a fun, safe and supportive environment. When we invest in our kids, we invest in Arkansas’s future.

I enjoyed visiting with Fort Smith Boys & Girls Club leaders and student participants and reminiscing on my days as a Boys Clubber in my hometown

I also greatly appreciated the invitation to stop by Ozarks Electric Cooperative in Fayetteville and discuss how smart investments in rural broadband and disaster recovery keep Arkansas communities safe, connected and prepared for the future. As Co-Chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, I’ll continue advocating for policies that expand access and strengthen infrastructure across The Natural State. And I was pleased to reassure their team of my support for federal reimbursement to utilities in the wake of natural disasters so they can continue providing the vital services that communities rely on.

Thanking Ozarks Electric Cooperative leadership for briefing me on their priorities

Enjoyed touring their impressive facility and learning about their impact on the communities they serve

Congressman Steve Womack and I also joined members of several Northwest Arkansas Chambers of Commerce to discuss the pro-growth policies that help create jobs and expand opportunity. Their leadership and vision are helping drive prosperity across the region and it was helpful to hear their feedback about what issues we need to address as well as the wins we secured in the Big Beautiful Bill.

Joining Congressman Womack to updatemembers of the Northwest ArkansasChambers of Commerce and answer their questions

Also great to catch up withRaymond Burns, Rogers-LowellChamber CEO

Finally, I was pleased to recognize the men and women of the 184th Attack Squadron at Ebbing Airbase in the Congressional Record for earning the prestigious 2024 General Atomics Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Trophy. We presented them with an official copy and expressed our deep appreciation for their role representing Arkansas and their dedicated service protecting our nation and interests. The Flying Razorbacks continue to make us proud.

Delivering a personalized Congressional Record to Brigadier General Chad Bridges

Congratulating members of the Flying Razorbacks and sharing thanks for their service to our country

ICYMI:

Recent Local Media Coverage:

KATV: Arkansas tackles maternal health crisis with statewide roundtable

Arkansas Democrat Gazette: Politicians, hospital administrators talk maternal health during Little Rock event

Talk Business & Politics: Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act providing maternal health data

Arkansas Advocate: Arkansas postpartum outreach program to expand by end of year

Pulaski Times: Boozman receives Friend of Farm Credit Award for advocacy on behalf of farmers

Stuttgart Daily Leader: Boozman awarded for championing policies supporting agriculture and rural communities

4029: Flying Razorbacks recognized as top remotely piloted attack squadron in the country

Other Recent News and Press From My Office: