Crowell Breaks Down Big Energy Bills, Prison Funding Fight, and Push for Local Control

In his first interview with Conduit News, AR State Senator Steve Crowell (R – Magnolia) offered an in-depth reflection on the 2025 legislative session, describing it as unusually stressful and disjointed.

He discussed major legislative developments including the energy and lithium bills, the prison funding debate, and local control issues such as the four-day school week.

Crowell also expressed concern about lobbying influence, tax policy, and excessive bill filing. Despite controversial votes and pushback, he emphasized his commitment to fiscal responsibility and local input.

Crowell, who isn’t up for re-election this cycle, plans to focus on supporting strong Conservative candidates in South Arkansas.

Topics & Timecodes:

➤ Session Recap & Atmosphere 00:00–02:25

    ➤ Suspension of Rules Debate 02:25–04:27

      ➤ Major Legislative Wins 04:27–06:01

        ➤ Energy Bill (SB307) & Ratepayer Impact 06:01–09:23

          ➤ Lithium Tax Incentives (SB568) 09:23–12:04

            ➤ Income Tax Elimination Outlook 12:04–14:13

              ➤ Prison Funding Controversy (SB354) 14:13–18:04

                ➤ Four-Day School Week Debate 18:04–23:07

                  ➤ Lobbying Influence at Capitol 23:07–25:13

                    ➤ Missed Legislation & Interim Studies 25:13–27:04

                      ➤ Importance of Interim Committee Work (PEER, ALC) 27:04–30:13

                        ➤ Funniest Session Moment 30:13–31:00

                          ➤ Re-Election & 2026 Campaign Preview 31:00–33:09