Arkansas bill allowing legislators to deny governor health declarations passes
"I think the pandemic provided the awareness that we needed to do something. As a result of it, you know, something good comes out of everything."
Author: Ian Russell
Updated: 6:13 PM CDT March 16, 2021
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A newly passed Arkansas Senate bill would allow state legislature to overturn public health declarations issued by the governor.
"I think it's critically important because we're at the front lines that hear from the citizens," Senator Kim Hammer (R-Benton) said. "The absence of the legislative branch, to have a seat at the table."
Senate Bill 379 comes as public health declarations have become more and more common. Hammer says this is a perfect time to introduce legislation like this.