When the calendar turns to 2026, more than a dozen new laws approved by Arkansas lawmakers are scheduled to take effect statewide.
Some measures passed during the most recent legislative session included delayed implementation dates, setting Jan. 1 as the start date.
Among the most notable is Act 1008, which removes the state’s 0.125% sales tax on groceries. While the state tax will be eliminated, local sales taxes on groceries will remain in place. Lawmakers say the change is intended to provide ongoing relief for families, seniors and those on fixed incomes.
Another law taking effect is Act 880, which allows property owned by a trust or limited liability company to qualify as a homestead for purposes of property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and certain surviving family members.
Act 628 mandates health insurance coverage for treatment of diseases and conditions caused by severe obesity for individuals 18 and older. The law excludes coverage for injectable glucose-lowering medications and drugs prescribed specifically for weight loss.
Act 881 creates an income tax credit aimed at encouraging corporations to relocate their headquarters to Arkansas. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission director may offer an additional tax credit of up to 10% for qualifying companies.
Several other laws also go into effect Jan. 1, including:
Act 948, which bans state entities from hiring unauthorized immigrants.
Act 631, allowing SNAP recipients to meet certain requirements by volunteering at organizations that receive state funding.
Act 875, which increases the disability onset age from 26 to 46 for eligibility in the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings program.
Act 624, requiring insurance coverage for all services related to breast reconstruction surgery.
Act 390, mandating coverage for lung cancer screenings and follow-up care.
Act 627, requiring coverage for breastfeeding and lactation consultant services in outpatient settings.
Act 866, mandating insurance coverage for deliveries at licensed birthing centers.
Act 621, allowing eligible Arkansas farmers to use a sales tax identification card in place of an exemption certificate.
Act 497, exempting vehicles used exclusively for public charities from property taxes.
Act 427, authorizing grants to assist property owners and nonprofits with recovery from catastrophic wind events.
Act 708, requiring unemployment benefit recipients to report at least five weekly job search contacts.
Act 748, allowing law enforcement agencies to seek reimbursement for training costs if an officer changes agencies within two years.
Act 929, requiring public higher education institutions to use a .edu domain unless exceptions apply.
Act 147, allowing blood type designations on Arkansas driver’s licenses and identification cards.
State officials say the measures reflect a mix of tax relief, health care changes, workforce requirements and public safety updates taking effect with the new year.
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