
Ozarks At Large



Arkansas's new state treasurer is reshaping policies of the office based on input from employees of the division. The 2014 fiscal year begins today with a new budget for the state, which includes increased spending for Medicaid and higher education. Today is the deadline for public input on the state's new voter ID law. Political commentators ruminate on Tom Cotton's chances for running a successful Senate campaign against Mark Pryor. And, Benton County starts looking at building a new courts building to replace the current one, built in 1928.



In our weekly review of the headlines, we take a look at groups and organizations that are on the hook for more money, and one organization getting a sizable amount of money.
Former state treasurer Martha Shoffner talks to reporters on her way into the courtroom in Little Rock. Some state lawmakers wonder if Arkansas can cover the cost of the so-called private option when the state has to pick up part of the cost in a few years. And UAFS gets a sizable gift to help expand the college's nursing program.



Latest Edition of Ozarks at Large
Monday, March 31, 2014
On this edition of Ozarks, a preview of an upcoming grief seminar for bereaved parents. Also, Fort Smith releases an annual report on its homeless community.
The city council will consider buying just more than four acres for the city's fourth fire station. Plus, the Private Option compromises were discussed at the Political Animals Club in Little Rock.
"Mambo Meixcano" by Sergio Mendoza Y La Orkestra
Open enrollment for health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act ends March 31st. And if you don’t have minimal essential coverage of any kind, you will be penalized. And as Jacqueline Froelich reports, how much depends on your income level.
Meanwhile, a push to raise the Arkansas minimum wage, and a separate effort to increase workforce programs get underway in the state. Roby Brock has that story and more in his weekly update.
The Arkansas Agriculture Department has recently revamped its program that connects local farmers to interested consumers, including an upcoming App.
Louis Jordan is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Still, many Arkansans might not know about their native son. Stephen Koch, the host of Arkansongs, has written a new book about him.