Governor Sanders issues Executive Order to limit government overreach, reduce bureaucracy and review previous executive orders

WHEREAS: Government officials have an obligation to simplify and streamline government;

WHEREAS: Since the formation of Arkansas in 1836, the Governors of the State of Arkansas have issued numerous Executive Orders;

WHEREAS:  The citizens of Arkansas and those who work for them in the Arkansas state government in the executive departments, agencies, offices, boards, and commissions need clarity regarding which  Executive Orders are currently in effect to ensure compliance with Arkansas law;

WHEREAS: Article 6, Section 2 of the Arkansas Constitution vests supreme executive power in the Governor of the State of Arkansas; and

WHEREAS:  A complete review and analysis of existing Executive Orders is necessary to assist this Administration as it conducts the official business for the people of Arkansas.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SARAH HUCKABEE SANDERS, acting under the authority vested in me as the Governor of the State of Arkansas, do hereby order the following:

(1) The Inspector General of the State of Arkansas is hereby directed to conduct a complete and exhaustive review of all previously issued Executive Orders. 

(2) This review should include the following: 

a)  A listing of all Executive Orders held by the Secretary of State of the State of Arkansas.

b)  The date of issuance, Executive Order number, and name of the Governor issuing each Executive Order. 

c)  A summary of the purpose and directive of each Executive Order, particularly relating to Executive Orders issued during the COVID-19 pandemic.

d) A summary of which Executive Orders are still in effect and which Executive Orders are revoked. 

e) An analysis determining if any Executive Order still in effect conflicts with other Executive Orders, State rules or regulations, Legislative Acts, federal law, or pertinent court decisions.

f)  If any conflict exists, a recommendation on how to resolve the conflict, inconsistency, or dispute. 

g) Recommendations on updating, amending, or modifying any Executive Orders if necessary. 

h) An analysis considering how each Executive Order may impact the rights and liberties of Arkansans. 

i) An analysis determining the impact each Executive Order has on important businesses and industries that operate in the State of Arkansas. 

The Inspector General shall have this report submitted to the Office of the Governor within ninety days.

This Executive Order shall become effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect until amended or rescinded by further executive orders. 

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and cause the Great Seal of the State of Arkansas to be affixed this 10th day of January, in the year of our Lord 2023.