Education Policy: Arkansas submitted requests to loosen federal requirements for public schools, seeking waivers tied to its “unified education plan,” a move praised by some districts but criticized by advocates for weakening equity guardrails. Consumer Protection: Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin is warning residents about forged tax notice letters that push victims to pay steep upfront fees to “tax relief” scammers posing as the IRS. Local Governance/Data Centers: Pulaski County approved a yearlong data center moratorium but carved out an exemption for AVAIO’s planned facility near Wrightsville, reigniting debate over farmland, water use and electricity costs versus jobs and tax revenue. Business/Industry: The Arkansas Beef Council approved $132,000 for research and promotion projects aimed at boosting the state’s beef market and producer competitiveness. Tech/ID Convenience: Arkansas driver’s licenses and state IDs are now available in Apple Wallet, expanding mobile verification for residents at select locations and TSA checkpoints. Public Safety/Accidents: An explosion and fire at Wildcat Recycling in El Dorado injured a co-owner and prompted a major multi-agency response. Energy Watch: GasBuddy reported Arkansas fuel prices remain volatile, with midgrade and premium prices in multiple counties still hovering around the mid-$4 range.