Brian S. Evans elected speaker as Arkansas House convenes for 90th General Assembly

The Arkansas House of Representatives convened for its organizational session and elected Representative Brian S. Evans as speaker after members were sworn in and the body adopted temporary rules.

Parliamentarian John T. Vines opened the session, citing "the provisions of article 5, section 11 of the Arkansas Constitution" and House rules, and Secretary of State Cole Jester read certified election returns for members elected in the Nov. 5, 2024, general election. Justice Sean Womack of the Arkansas Supreme Court administered oaths to members-elect before the House began its organizational business.

Representative Diane Vaught moved that the House adopt the rules of the prior (90th) General Assembly as temporary rules for the new session; the motion was adopted. Representative Howard Beatty placed Representative Brian S. Evans' name in nomination for speaker; the House recorded votes and elected Evans. The presiding officers announced 98 members present for initial roll-call and seating of the members; the motion to seat members and administer the oath was recorded as passed with 98 present.

After his election, Representative Brian S. Evans addressed the chamber, thanking members for their service and urging colleagues to "join me in a commitment of free will sacrifice" as they begin the legislative session. Evans also spoke about his personal background and called for service that does not seek headlines but benefits constituents.

The House completed organizational business and adjourned until 10 a.m. the following day by a nondebatable motion.

The actions taken during the session were procedural and organizational: seating members, administering oaths, adopting temporary rules and electing the speaker. No policy bills were debated or adopted during this convening.