In a recent interview with Conduit News, Arkansas State Senator Justin Boyd (R – Fort Smith) sat down to offer a wide-ranging reflection on the most recent legislative session. From defending personal liberty to tackling healthcare reform, prison overcrowding, and government spending, Boyd outlined his policy positions and rationale behind key votes.
With an eye on re-election, Boyd also announced his intent to run again, emphasizing his commitment to representing the values and needs of his Fort Smith constituents.
Here are the key takeaways from the interview:
🗣️ Overall Impression of the Legislative Session
00:00–01:11
- Boyd described the session as “different,” not necessarily in a better way, but emphasized collaboration among lawmakers to serve Arkansans’ best interests.
📚 Library Book Content and Arkansas Values
01:54–03:14
- Addressed constituent concerns about sexually explicit books in public libraries.
- Supported efforts to restrict access for minors, arguing materials should be placed in separate sections rather than banned outright.
💵 Central Bank Digital Currency Bill (SB133)
03:14–06:25
- Introduced SB133 to preemptively block federal use of central bank digital currency (CBDC), citing concerns over government overreach.
- Cited the 10th Amendment and the importance of preserving individual financial freedoms.
🏥 Right to Try Expansion Bill
06:25–08:01
- Backed an expansion of Arkansas’s Right to Try Act, allowing terminally ill patients access to newer individualized therapies.
- Framed the bill as a matter of personal medical freedom and reduced bureaucratic interference.
💊 Support for OTC Ivermectin & Fluoride Mandate Repeal
08:01–13:30
- Supported legislation making ivermectin available over-the-counter, saying it provided a safer alternative than off-label agricultural versions.
- Voted to repeal the fluoride mandate, citing Fort Smith’s repeated public rejection of fluoridation and defending local control over state mandates.
🏗️ Franklin County Prison Advocacy
14:10–27:34
- Defended support for building a new state prison in Franklin County, citing jail overcrowding in Sebastian County and lack of state reimbursement for housing state inmates.
- Criticized suggestions that local taxpayers should bear the cost of expansion, insisting the state must take responsibility.
- Acknowledged budget concerns but called the prison a needed investment, noting that design-build phases would help refine the final scope and cost.
📉 Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth
21:01–26:00
- Expressed confidence in managing costs while continuing to cut income taxes and grow Arkansas’s economy.
- Highlighted strong in-migration and economic performance as evidence of fiscal strength.
🏪 Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Reform – HB1150
30:19–36:51
- Backed a bill separating pharmacy ownership from pharmacy benefit manager roles to prevent anti-competitive practices.
- Cited personal experience as a pharmacist and constituent feedback following a local pharmacy chain’s sale.
- Argued the law would foster competition, reduce inflated drug prices, and protect independent pharmacies.
🗳️ Reelection Announcement
37:13–37:54
- Publicly announced his bid for reelection during the interview.
- Expressed pride in his legislative work and eagerness to continue serving his district.
