Exiting State Reps. offer legislative Year in Review

Nicks, Ferguson shares a recap of Arkansas lawmakers’ work in 2024

By Ralph Hardin

news@theeveningtimes.com

As 2024 draws to a close, two longtime members of the Arkansas House of Representatives who have served Crittenden County for several years are bidding farewell to the state legislature and to public service.

State Rep. Milton Nicks (DMarion) and State Rep. Deborah Ferguson (D-West Memphis) are both steppping down at the end of the year, having chosen not to seek reelection this past November.

With their terms coming to an end both lawmakers say they are proud of their time in Little Rock and took time to reflect on the significant accomplishments and progress made this year.

“It has been a year of meaningful legislative achievements that directly benefit the people of Arkansas,” said Ferguson. “First and foremost, in 2024 we successfully lowered the top individual income tax rate to 3.9 percent, the lowest it has been since its inception in 1923.

“This landmark reduction provides relief to over 1.1 million Arkansans,” said Nicks. “Additionally, we reduced the corporate income tax rate from 4.8 to 4.3 percent, effective January 1, 2024, to stimulate economic activity and support businesses in our state.”

Putting more money into the pockets of Arkansas residents, they said, was always a priority.

“Furthermore, we increased the homestead property tax credit from $425 to $500, effective January 1, 2024, to ease the financial burden on homeowners across Arkansas,” Nicks said.

There was also a focus on spending responsibly.

“During the 2024 Fiscal Session, we passed a balanced budget that prioritized government efficiency while increasing funding for critical areas like education and public safety,” Ferguson said.

“The Revenue Stabilization Act included a 1.76 percent increase in state spending, with significant boosts in funding for education and the Arkansas State Police.”

Protecting Arkansans and their assets was also a major part of the legislative agenda.

“We also addressed the digital mining industry with new laws that ensure responsible operations and prevent prohibited foreign parties from acquiring interests in digital mining businesses within our state,” said Nicks.

On the education front, the House and Senate Education Committees approved a proposed recommendation for educational adequacy, increasing state funding per pupil to $8,162 for the 2026 school year and $8,371 for the 2027 school year.

“This reflects a commitment to investing in the future of Arkansas students and ensuring they have access to essential resources for a quality education,” Ferguson said.

The 95th General Assembly will consider the recommendation in the 2025 Regular Session, although it will be without Ferguson and Nicks, who will be giving their seats to new state representatives Lincoln Barnett and Jessie McGruder respectively.

“As we look back on the accomplishments of 2024,” said Ferguson, “we are grateful for the opportunity to serve our constituents and make a positive impact on the lives of Arkansans.”

FERGUSON

NICKS