On Monday, January 13, 2025, the Arkansas House of Representatives officially swore in all 100 members for the 95th General Assembly. Among them was Rep. Brian Evans of Cabot, who began his first term as Speaker of the House.
Speaker Brian Evans Takes the Helm
During his inaugural speech as Speaker, Rep. Evans expressed deep gratitude to his colleagues for entrusting him with the role. He thanked the members of the House for their dedication to public service and their commitment to improving the lives of their constituents.
Evans’s speech revolved around the theme of “sacrifice over self,” a principle he said has guided his journey. He acknowledged his family for their support and sacrifices, as well as his team in Cabot, whose efforts have been pivotal in enabling him to serve.
Reflecting on Life-Changing Moments
Speaker Evans shared two key moments that shaped his path. The first was his experience as a House page in the spring of 1983, where he had the opportunity to witness influential legislators such as Murphy, George, Cunningham, and Hawkins in action. He described these individuals as “pioneers of policy” who left an indelible mark on him through their dedication.
The second moment was his time at Boys State, where a speech by then-Governor Mike Huckabee profoundly impacted his outlook on leadership and service.
Guided by Faith and Sacrifice
Evans emphasized that witnessing “sacrifice over self” throughout his life prepared him for this moment of leadership. Drawing inspiration from Mark 13:3-9, a scripture he has prayed over the legislative body for months, Evans urged his colleagues to embrace the spirit of selfless service.
“Commitment in freewill of sacrifice, selfless sacrifice of service,” Evans stated. He called on House members to prioritize the needs of their constituents over personal ambition, emphasizing that their service should stand as a tribute not to themselves but to the people they represent.
Evans concluded by encouraging members to act not for headlines but for the betterment of Arkansans, embodying the values of humility and dedication.
The 95th General Assembly now moves forward under the leadership of Speaker Evans.
House Leadership and Committee Appointments
After his speech, Speaker Evans then announced his selections for leadership positions of the 95th General Assembly. This includes President Pro Temp, Assistant President Pro Temps from house congressional districts, and committee chairs and vice chairs. Unlike the state Senate, which allows individual members to select their committees, chairs, and vice chairs, the House positions are filled by the speaker.
House committees have 20 members, with a Chairperson and Vice-Chair.
President Pro Temp: Carlton Wing
Asst. Pro Temps: Tosh, F. Allen, L. Warren, K. Moore
Education:
Chair: K. Brooks (was co-chair of Edu. in 2023)
Vice-Chair: B. McKenzie
Judiciary:
Chair: Dalby (returning)
Vice-Chair: K. Underwood
Public Health:
Chair: J. Wardlaw
Vice-Chair: J. Woolridge
Revenue & Tax:
Chair: F. Cavenaugh
Vice-Chair: D. Ray
Public Transportation:
Chair: M. Holcomb
Vice-Chair: J. Milligan
Aging/Children/Vets:
Chair: S. Barker (returning)
Vice-Chair: M. Bentley
Agriculture/Forestry:
Chair: R. Lynch (was co-chair in 2023)
Vice-Chair: J. Moore
City, County, Local:
Chair: J. Gonzales
Vice-Chair: B. Shultz
Insurance/Commerce:
Chair: J. Maddox (returning as Chair)
Vice-Chair: T. Steimel
State Agencies:
Chair: J. Gazaway
Vice-Chair: R. Beck
Rules:
Chair: J. Eubanks
Vice-Chair: S. Pearce
Joint Management:
Chair: D. Vaughn
Vice-Chair: S. Walker
Joint Energy:
Chair M. Shepherd
Vice-Chair: Z. Gramlich
Joint Public Retirement:
Chair L. Warren
Vice-Chair: K. Moore
Joint Advanced Comm:
Chair: S. Meeks
Vice-Chair: A. McCollum
Joint Performance Review:
Chair: B. Cozart
Vice-Chair: T. Furman
Joint Budget:
Chair: L. Jean (returning)
Vice-Chair: L. Johnson
Joint Audit:
Chair: R. Lundstrum
Vice-Chair: R.J. Hawk
Legislative Council:
Chair: L. Eaves
Vice-Chair: J. Ladyman
