Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SCR5

Introduced
2/26/25  
Engrossed
4/8/25  
Refer
4/8/25  
Report Pass
4/14/25  

Caption

To Continue To Encourage The Pursuit Of National Cancer Institute Designation By The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute At The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences.

Impact

The resolution recognizes the widespread impact cancer has on Arkansans, with projections indicating that nearly 20,000 residents will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025 alone. The state ranks among the highest in the nation for cancer-related mortality, which underscores the urgent need for improved cancer care infrastructure. By obtaining this designation, the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute could access more substantial research funding and better serve the local community by providing lifesaving treatments and expanded participation in clinical trials. Additionally, the resolution projects an economic benefit, estimating that establishing a designated center could inject approximately $70 million annually into the state's economy and create nearly 1,600 jobs over five years.

Summary

SCR5 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that aims to encourage the ongoing efforts of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in its pursuit of designation as a National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center. This designation is significant as it would enhance the institute's ability to provide clinical trials, advanced cancer treatment options, and cancer prevention strategies, thereby improving healthcare access for the state's residents. Currently, Arkansas lacks National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Centers, which means that many cancer patients must travel out of state for treatment options that are essential for their survival.

Contention

While there is broad support for SCR5, some points of contention may arise related to the allocation of state funds for cancer research and treatment initiatives. Critics of increased funding for healthcare projects may argue about prioritizing state resources, especially amid competing demands in education and infrastructure. Furthermore, ensuring equitable access to these resources across all regions of Arkansas could also present challenges, as disparities in healthcare access may continue if additional cancer treatment options are concentrated in urban areas around the cancer institute.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB123

An Act For The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

AR SB51

An Act For The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HR1084

To Commemorate The Fiftieth Anniversary Of The Regional Campuses Operated By The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences.

AR SR58

To Commemorate The Fiftieth Anniversary Of The Regional Campuses Operated By The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences.

AR HCR1002

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR SR23

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR HR1004

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR SB491

To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Employees Of Institutions Of Higher Education; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1008

To Modify The Coverage Of Continuous Glucose Monitors In The Arkansas Medicaid Program.

AR HB1010

An Act For The Arkansas State University - Arkansas Biosciences Institute Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

TX HR127

Honoring Dr. John Mendelsohn for his 15-year tenure as president of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.

AR HR1042

To Honor Annie Mable Mcdaniel Abrams For Her Service To Her Community And The State Of Arkansas.

AR HR1055

To Recognize Miss America's Teen 2025 Peyton Bolling.

AR SR31

To Recognize Miss America's Teen 2025 Peyton Bolling.

AR HB1803

To Amend The Law Concerning The Placement Of A Monument On The State Capitol Grounds In Recognition And Honor Of Maurice Lee “footsie” Britt.

AR HMR1003

To Remember Legendary Civil Rights Attorney And Longtime State Representative John W. Walker, Sr. For His Lifelong Fight Against Discrimination And His Service To The State Of Arkansas.

AR SR75

To Honor Sylvia Ann Hindsman Cornwell For Her Exemplary, Dedicated Service To The Senate And To The State Of Arkansas.

AR SB128

An Act For The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.