Representative Brit McKenzie (R – Rogers) discussed his legislative efforts in an interview with Conduit News. He reviewed significant bills, including property rights protections, lobbying reforms, education policies, and term limit transparency.
McKenzie highlighted achievements like the grocery tax repeal, challenges with opposition from special interests, and unresolved legislation. He emphasized his commitment to Conservative priorities and constituent-driven policies as the state heads into primary season.
Key Topics and Time Codes:
🗳️ Introduction and Session Overview (00:00:09:04 – 00:01:34:04)
McKenzie, representing Northwest Arkansas, shares his overall impression of the session, noting successes like the grocery tax repeal and unfinished priorities like income tax cuts.
🏡 Private Property Rights Bill (HB1445) (00:01:34:06 – 00:06:54:18)
McKenzie filed HB1445 to protect short-term rental property rights but faced opposition, not only from special interests, but within the Republican party.
🚫 Foreign Lobbying Ban (HB1662) (00:06:54:20 – 00:10:29:06)
HB1662, aimed at prohibiting lobbying for foreign entities like China, passed the House but failed in the Senate despite multiple attempts, raising concerns about special interest influence.
💰 Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying Ban (HJR1006) (00:10:29:08 – 00:13:14:20)
McKenzie’s constitutional amendment to stop taxpayer-funded government lobbying sparked discussion but did not advance, though he filed it as a regular bill to continue the conversation.
🌳 No Government Trespassing Act (HB1867) (00:13:14:22 – 00:20:32:11)
HB1867 sought to limit game wardens’ access to private land without permission. McKenzie withdrew it after negotiations with the Game and Fish Commission led to procedural changes.
📚 Education Committee and Policies (00:20:32:11 – 00:32:14:02)
As co-chair of the House Education Committee, McKenzie supported bills on school choice, school board elections, and religious education.
⏳ Term Limits Transparency (HB1873) (00:32:14:04 – 00:39:10:15)
HB1873 aimed to clarify term limits for legislators but failed in the Senate, leaving ambiguity as primaries approach.
🗳️Primary Season Outlook (00:39:10:17 – 00:41:45:18)
McKenzie expects strong conservative turnout in primaries, driven by support for bold leadership and policies like tax cuts and government efficiency.
