SUMMARY: The Arkansas State Police has launched a “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign to combat distracted driving. Troopers will actively monitor drivers for phone use and emphasize the risks associated with distracted driving, which is a leading cause of accidents in Arkansas and nationwide. In 2022, distracted driving led to 3,338 fatalities and nearly 290,000 injuries. The campaign warns that fines for phone use while driving range from $25 to $250 for first offenses, increasing to $500 for subsequent violations. The initiative aims to save lives, with enforcement running through April 14th.

Arkansas State Police are cracking down on distracted drivers with a new phone-free campaign. Now, drivers caught texting and driving will have to pay a fine.

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SUMMARY: A billion-dollar data center project is underway in Conway, Arkansas, following a year of collaboration between city officials, a private company, and local utilities. This significant investment is anticipated to greatly impact the local economy, potentially starting with $1 billion over the project’s lifespan. The proposed site, targeting a 300,000 square-foot building along Lai Road, is favored for its utility infrastructure. Unlike controversial crypto mining operations that have faced local opposition, Conway’s project is unrelated to such activities, adhering to current zoning standards. Further meetings are planned to discuss design, engineering, and financing.

A new billion-dollar data center is set to open in Conway.

https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/controversial-billion-dollar-data-center-heads-to-city-of-conway/91-60559e24-b6de-4b6a-8602-f98bd4999808

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SUMMARY: Flood insurance costs in Arkansas have increased but not doubled in recent years. While premiums have risen, from $781 to $946 annually, the increase is moderate. This change comes after FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 program, which evaluates individual property risks like elevation and flood history. Arkansas has long been vulnerable to flooding, ranking first in flood-related disaster declarations in 2018. Despite the rising costs, the state encourages homeowners and businesses to invest in flood insurance, with FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program offering coverage. The program’s authorization is set to expire on September 30, 2025, requiring Congressional reauthorization.

Fixing damage left behind from severe weather can be tricky without the right insurance. But have flood insurance costs doubled in Arkansas over the past few years?

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