Arkansas State Representative Matt Duffield (R- Russellville) discussed his experiences during the 95th General Assembly. Now in his second term, Duffield highlighted a shift in House leadership styles and reflected on the challenges and lessons learned under new Speaker Brian Evans.
Duffield emphasized a commitment to “problem-solving legislation,” detailing several successful bills: restricting sex offenders from public parks, expanding fireworks sales, and enabling faster animal rescue operations through “Daisy’s Law.” He also co-sponsored a successful resolution to strengthen Second Amendment protections, set for the 2026 ballot.
Despite several legislative wins, Duffield expressed frustration over the failure of Senate Bill 2, which aimed to remove fluoride mandates from drinking water.
Duffield closed by acknowledging both the opportunities and conflicts inherent in politics, underscoring his desire to keep representing his district effectively while staying true to principle—even when faced with resistance.
🕒 Topics & Time Codes:
00:00 – 01:05 Introduction and background on Rep. Duffield
01:05 – 02:25 Differences in House leadership between sessions
02:25 – 04:51 Shifts in legislative style and internal culture
05:12 – 07:26 Public safety bills: restricting sex offenders (HB1437)
07:26 – 08:05 Co-sponsoring squatting bill (HB1049)
08:05 – 10:08 “Daisy’s Law” for animal rescue (HB1824)
11:08 – 12:27 Expanding fireworks sales period (HB1324)
12:27 – 14:57 Second Amendment amendment for 2026 ballot
15:17 – 19:06 Fluoride repeal effort and challenges (SB2)
19:06 – 22:14 Reaction to SB2 failure and special interests
22:14 – 24:13 Disconnect between federal/state reform efforts
24:13 – 26:07 State budget responsibility and learning curve
26:35 – 27:42 Disappointment with medical marijuana inaction
28:02 – 28:56 Attempt to make Good Friday a state holiday
29:35 – 30:57 Future political ambitions and guiding principles
30:57 – 32:21 Influence of lobbyists and legislative peer pressure
32:21 – 34:47 The role of relationships and discomfort avoidance in votes
34:47 – 36:41 Most surprising moment: fluoride vote in committee
36:41 – End Closing remarks and personal contact info
