Arkansas Governor Outlines $6.7B Budget, Legislative Priorities

Sanders highlights education, law enforcement, and tax cuts in fiscal session address

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:50pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of the Arkansas state capitol building, its grand architecture and dome illuminated by warm, angled sunlight casting deep shadows across the structure, evoking a sense of quiet contemplation about the state's political future.The Arkansas state capitol stands as a symbol of the state's political landscape, as Governor Sanders outlines her legislative vision for the fiscal year.Little Rock Today

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders delivered her opening address to the state legislature, outlining a proposed $6.7 billion budget and her key priorities for the fiscal session. The plan includes increased funding for education, law enforcement, and cost-saving initiatives, as well as continued support for the LEARNS Act and potential additional tax cuts.

Why it matters

As the state's chief executive, the governor's budget and legislative agenda set the tone for the fiscal year and signal her administration's policy focus areas. This address provides insight into Sanders' governing vision and the issues she hopes to advance through the legislative process.

The details

The proposed $6.7 billion budget represents a 3% increase over the previous year and includes an additional $122 million for Education Freedom Accounts and $70 million for future growth. Sanders also highlighted efforts to address food insecurity, fully fund raises for law enforcement and corrections staff, and pursue cost-saving measures through the Arkansas Forward Initiative. Tax cuts, including recent reductions to the state income tax and elimination of the grocery tax, were another key priority, with the governor saying she may call a special session to pursue additional cuts.

  • The fiscal session of the Arkansas legislature opened on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • The governor delivered her address to lawmakers at the start of the session.

The players

Sarah Huckabee Sanders

The 47th Governor of Arkansas, elected in 2022 and taking office in January 2023.

Rep. Stan Berry

A member of the Arkansas House of Representatives who passed away in March 2026.

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What they’re saying

“The plan represents a three percent increase over the previous budget and includes an additional $122 million for Education Freedom Accounts, along with $70 million set aside for future growth.”

— Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders

“Sanders began her address by acknowledging the March death of Rep. Stan Berry before turning to her legislative agenda, which she said centers on continued support for the LEARNS Act.”

— Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders

What’s next

The Arkansas legislature will now consider the governor's proposed budget and legislative priorities during the fiscal session. Lawmakers have already filed more than 70 bills for the session, and the governor may call a special session to pursue additional tax cuts.

The takeaway

Governor Sanders' budget and legislative agenda reflect her administration's focus on education, law enforcement, cost-savings, and tax cuts. As the state's chief executive, her priorities will shape the policy debates and outcomes of the fiscal session, with potential implications for Arkansas residents and businesses.