LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas lawmakers have adjourned this week’s special session after approving the largest tax cuts in state history.
The House and Senate on Thursday approved identical bills outlining the tax cut package that will cost nearly $500 million a year once fully implemented in 2026.
Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed the legislation into law hours later. Hutchinson had called the special session for the proposal.
“It is to create the largest benefit, in terms of tax cuts for the people of Arkansas…we’ve done in our history,” said Gov. Hutchinson during his press conference, stating the purpose of the bill.
Hutchinson was asked if Arkansas would see any tax cuts soon. He said he wants to celebrate today before planning ahead.
"We ought to celebrate exactly where we are today,” Hutchinson said. “The largest tax cut in history. As for the future, as for where do we go, let's enjoy this moment. We have to plan out where we have been for the past couple of years. I don't think we need to go beyond that, not right now."
Lawmakers wrapped up without taking up a Texas-style abortion ban or other measures some Republicans had hoped to add to the session’s agenda.
The Legislature approved several other items, including incentives to help lure a steel mill expansion to east Arkansas.