Arkansas, Louisiana Pass Laws on Drugs, Safety, Education

Arkansas has enacted several new laws effective August 5, 2025, including measures to double fines for moving violations in both stationary and mobile highway work zones and authorize green flashing lights on roadwork vehicles to improve safety. The state has expanded prescription drug access by allowing nonprofit hospitals to operate retail pharmacies and by prohibiting drug manufacturers from limiting medication distribution to out-of-state pharmacies, though a law affecting pharmacy benefit managers remains blocked in court. New education laws in Arkansas require public schools to display the Ten Commandments, expand religious rights, ban DEI practices, and mandate instruction on gun safety and fetal development. Meanwhile, Louisiana has passed six new laws aimed at easing the state's insurance crisis through stricter construction oversight, contractor regulation, and improved claims processing. Collectively, these legislative changes in both states address healthcare access, public safety, insurance affordability, and cultural debates in education. The new laws reflect lawmakers’ efforts to respond to evolving community needs and policy challenges.