Proposal to replace Arkansas statues in National Statuary Hall draws mixed response; vote expunged

Senator Dave Wallace presented Senate Bill 75, asking the committee to authorize replacing Arkansasstatues in the National Statuary Hall with figures he said better reflect the state's contemporary history: civil-rights leader Daisy Bates and musician Johnny Cash. Wallace framed the proposal as symbolic of Arkansas' history and values and said private donations would fund any replacements; he did not provide a cost estimate.

Wallace argued the two nominees "represent Arkansas today," emphasizing Daisy Bates' leadership in school integration and Johnny Cash's cultural ties to Arkansas backgrounds. A committee member suggested an alternative nominee, saying Sam Waltonmight better represent the state's commercial contribution. Judge Blonde asked whether there was a plan for the existing statues; Wallace said the bill does not address relocation or disposal but suggested the old state capitol as a suitable home for the removed statues.

Committee members moved to "do pass" the bill and held a voice vote that the chair initially recorded as carrying. Several senators immediately questioned the membership present for that voice vote and moved to expunge it; the committee approved the motion to expunge the recorded vote and asked Senator Wallace to consult further and return with additional discussion or amendments.

No final committee action on SB75 was recorded in the transcript; the sponsor was asked to continue outreach and return the bill when more members can participate in the decision.