Representative-elect Jessie McGruder, D-Marion (center), explains Arkansas House Democrats’ plans to support legislation in the 2025 legislative session that would make it easier for people to vote, get constitutional amendments on the ballot and access government records during a press conference on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at the Arkansas Capitol. At right is House Minority Leader Andrew Collins, D-Little Rock, who led the press conference discussing a range of legislative priorities. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate)
Arkansas House Democrats outlined a four-pronged policy agenda for the 2025 legislative session in a press conference Tuesday, led by the chamber’s new minority leader and joined by most of the caucus, including some new members.
House Minority Leader Andrew Collins, D-Little Rock, said he will file a range of bills Wednesday addressing the needs of maternal health care, mental health care, public education and access to voting and direct democracy.
“We recognize we are currently in the minority . That doesn’t mean we tuck our tails and go home,” said Collins, who succeeded fellow Little Rock Rep. Tippi McCullough as minority leader. “We’re coming out with a bold agenda that would make a huge difference for Arkansas families… We want to make it clear what we stand for and who we stand for — you — and how we’ll lead once you give us the chance again.”