Thu Dec 25 05:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:

Summary:

As of January 1, 2026, several new laws will take effect in Arkansas. These include the removal of the state sales tax on groceries, expanded property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, mandated health insurance coverage for severe obesity treatments (with exclusions), and an income tax credit to incentivize corporate headquarters to relocate to Arkansas.

News Article:

New Laws to Impact Arkansas Residents in 2026

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) – Arkansas residents will see a number of changes in the new year as more than a dozen new laws go into effect on January 1, 2026.

One of the most significant changes is the complete removal of the 0.125% state sales tax on groceries. According to the Arkansas House, this provides much-needed relief to families, seniors, and those on fixed incomes by lowering the cost of everyday necessities. Local sales taxes on groceries will remain in place.

Another law expands property tax exemptions to disabled veterans by allowing properties owned by trusts or LLCs to qualify as homesteads in certain circumstances.

For those struggling with obesity, a new mandate requires health benefit plans to cover treatments for diseases and conditions caused by “severe obesity” for those 18 years and older, though the law excludes coverage for injectable glucose-lowering drugs and weight-loss medications.

In an effort to attract businesses, the state will now offer an income tax credit to corporations that relocate their headquarters to Arkansas. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission director may also offer an additional tax credit of up to 10%.

For more information on these and other new laws taking effect in 2026, visit the Arkansas Legislature’s website.

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