Analyzing County Implementation of Arkansas AI Policies

by Kristin Higgins - May 12, 2026

Last year, Arkansas legislators passed the state's first attempt at artificial intelligence (AI) regulation via Act 848 of 2025. The additions to Arkansas Code § 25-1-128 made through Act 848 require Arkansas public entities to adopt formal policies governing the authorized use of artificial intelligence and automated decision tools.

"Public entity" includes state agencies, political subdivisions such as counties and municipalities, public school districts and charter schools, institutions of higher education, and offices of constitutional officers. 

Braden Carr, a spring intern with the Public Policy Center, undertook a review of Arkansas quorum court meeting agendas and minutes to see how many counties had implemented the policy required by Act 848. An analysis of how Arkansas counties are responding to a policy on an emerging issue is required to assess preparedness and capacity at the local level.

Out of 20 counties selected at random, only one county adopted an AI policy to satisfy Act 848. The singular county that passed a policy did so using the template provided by the Association of Arkansas Counties.

Read Carr's white paper for more information about how counties have responded to Act 848 of 2025.