SESSION UPDATE

Here`s a look at some of the happenings around the state capitol today: Representative Dustin McDonald is proposing the Arkansas Rx program. It would allow the state to negotiate with major drug companies to secure the lowest prescription drug costs for Arkansas. Under the bill, the Department of Human Services would administer the program and be in charge of the bargaining. Spokespeople for the agency say they have concerns about how this plan would interact with the new federal drug card and about the administrative costs for handling the negotiations. Senator Ruth Whitaker says her resurrected bill calling for only one school superintendent in every state county is getting lots of support among constituents. Six days after filing, Whitaker reports that she`s been flooded with e-mails and calls from teachers and business leaders who love the idea. She admits she hasn`t shopped the plan around the capitol much, but she`s confident she`ll be able to add sponsors. As the session rolls on, no bills dealing with the massive education facilities issue have surfaced. Members of the task force say they plan to issue a revised report on building repair costs statewide early next month. They have to finish meeting with superintendents and updating data first.