News and Updates from Arkansas Libraries

The Arkansas Right to Read Project leadership team is thrilled by the recent federal court ruling striking down the most contentious parts of Act 372 as unconstitutional. Judge Timothy Brooks’ decision is a monumental victory for intellectual freedom and the First Amendment, reaffirming that censorship has no place in Arkansas. This decision validates the hard work and commitment of advocates across the state, and it sets the stage for our next steps: the introduction of a “repeal and replace” bill, HB1086, in the 2025 legislative session.

Arkansas has long been a state where the principle of “live and let live” has guided our way of life. Respecting differences and allowing individuals to make their own choices have been cornerstones of how we approach community and governance. SB81 / Public Act 372 disrupted this tradition, imposing the morality of a small group of activist legislators on the entire state and threatening the freedoms guaranteed to all Arkansans under both the U.S. and Arkansas Constitutions.

The Arkansas Right to Read Project is excited to announce our full support for HB1028, a proposed bill for the 2025 legislative session that aims to repeal and replace the unconstitutional SB81 with a thoughtful, forward-looking law designed to protect intellectual freedom in Arkansas. As we celebrate a critical victory in the fight against censorship with the recent court ruling striking down parts of Act 372, our focus now turns to legislative action to ensure that Arkansas libraries remain places of exploration, learning, and intellectual growth.

If you're interested in supporting libraries in your community, we have the tools and resources you need to win.