Pandemic overshadows agenda as Arkansas lawmakers meet

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas lawmakers return to the Capitol on Monday for a legislative session overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic that has killed thousands in the state.

Even before the session begins, Arkansas is tied with South Dakota for the second largest outbreak in a state Legislature. The virus has changed the way the Legislature operates and a fight over the state's response to it is expected.

"COVID response and recovery are going to bookend the session," Gov. Asa Hutchinson said.

In between that, lawmakers face a busy agenda.

Virus concerns

House and Senate leaders have announced steps they'll take during the session aimed at curbing further outbreaks but still allowing the public to participate.

Read more: https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/jan/10/pandemic-overshadows-agenda-arkansas-lawmakers-meet/855743/