This week, the Arkansas Legislative Council (ALC) approved several requests to distribute federal funding to benefit Arkansas education, health, and safety initiatives.
One of the most significant approvals was a request for $72.3 million of American Rescue Plan Act Program Funding (ARPA) from the Arkansas Department of Education. In addition to increasing the number of literacy coaches, tutoring grants to schools and students, merit teacher incentives, and transportation modernization grants, the division will use additional funds to standardize reporting systems across the state, increase measures such as the phone free school initiatives and increase career-ready pathways for students.
The ALC also approved $2.6 million in ARPA funding for the Department of Education's Office of Early Childhood. This funding is designated to purchase fresh and processed food from local, socially disadvantaged farmers, making locally-produced food more accessible to Arkansas families. This program is designed to support both local agriculture and family nutrition, creating a positive impact for both growers and consumers in our state.
In addition, the council approved $1.9 million in ARPA funding to support the Victims of Crime Act. This funding will help ensure that victims receive essential support and resources immediately following a crime.
