- In a new effort to combat the state’s opioid crisis, the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Blue Cross/Blue Shield and AFMC to create Together Arkansas. The coalition will provide educational resources for employers to address workplace losses and damages caused by opioid-use disorder.
- The Arkansas Supreme Court decided that the Arkansas Racing Commission may issue gambling licenses to potential casino developments in Pope County, ruling against the intervention request and appeal from Gulfside, a casino partnership whose application was rejected.
- Julian Castro, former housing secretary, mayor of San Antonio and Democratic presidential candidate dropped out of the 2020 presidential race today. Castro stated that “it simply isn’t our time.”
- Iraqi citizens gather around the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, protesting against U.S. airstrikes that killed at least 25 people. The protestors dispersed after tear gas was deployed by embassy security.
- The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration reports that medical marijuana users spent $25.7 million on cannabis since May. Patients have purchased nearly 4,000 pounds of weed.
- The Arkansas Razorbacks (11-1) faces the Texas A&M Aggies (6-5) this Saturday at the Bud Walton Basketball Arena.
- January 2, 1788: Georgia becomes the fourth state to ratify the newly-minted U.S. Constitution.
- January 2, 1920: Scientist and influential science-fiction author Isaac Asimov is born in Petrovichi, Russia.
