James Sturch

James Sturch, Arkansas Senator Arkansas has been developing a statewide response to the growing health crisis created by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.During the 2023 session the legislature will consider a series of proposals brought by the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Advisory Council, which was created by Act 319 of 2021.Measures include enhancement of services for caregivers. Many wear themselves out physically caring for loved ones, and many receive no compensation for the long…

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James Sturch, Arkansas Senator Funds are now available from the settlement of a massive lawsuit against opioid distributors, and will be awarded to projects that have demonstrated effectiveness in combating the abuse of painkillers.The Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership has set up a website with information about how to apply. It has an advisory board that will review applications. The Partnership’s director previously served as state Drug Director for five years.The Partnership is…

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James Sturch, Arkansas Senator A panel of three federal judges dismissed portions of a lawsuit filed against state officials, in which plaintiffs argue that the legislature violated the federal Voting Rights Act last year when it drew new maps for the state’s four Congressional districts.The lawsuit contends that the new map dilutes the strength of African-American voters by splitting Pulaski County among three separate Congressional Districts.Traditionally, Pulaski County has been entirely within…

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James Sturch, Arkansas Senator Legislators have begun budget hearings in preparation for the 2023 regular session.Members of the Joint Budget Committee and the Legislative Council will review in detail all spending requests by state agencies.The governor will present a balanced budget plan on November 10 that legislators will consider before they recommend spending levels for state government. At the same time the administration will update its economic forecast for the remainder of…

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James Sturch, Arkansas Senator A shooting spree occurred in Little Rock over the weekend of August 13 and 14. Three people were killed and four people were wounded.In the most recent tally, there were 18 shootings that also damaged buildings and motor vehicles. The State Police activated a helicopter and brought in 32 troopers to help Little Rock police and the Pulaski County sheriff.The joint operation was successful and a suspect was…

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