SNAP Health Policy Shift: Arkansas will stop allowing SNAP benefits to buy soda and certain other “unhealthy” items starting July 1, following a USDA-approved waiver tied to the state’s “Make America Healthy Again” alignment. Drug Pricing Push: States are moving to rein in pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that manage prescription coverage, with lawmakers targeting compensation, transparency, and conflicts of interest as consumers worry about affordability. Medicaid Fraud Enforcement: Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announced five Medicaid fraud arrests in a national health care fraud takedown, underscoring continued pressure on billing and program abuse. Rural Care Quality: Howard Memorial Hospital in Arkansas earned a top patient recommendation rating (HCAHPS-based) and reported faster emergency department stays than the Arkansas average, with board members reviewing performance metrics. Food Security Funding: Arvest Bank’s Million Meals campaign raised a record $633,513, including $13,927 for the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas, aimed at summer hunger gaps when school meals end. Heat Safety Warning: A July 4 heat dome forecast includes dangerous temperatures across Arkansas and much of the South, raising health risks for people spending long hours outdoors. Local Health & Wellness: A Fort Smith strategy session highlighted water infrastructure needs and homelessness as key local health-related challenges, while Memphis air-quality monitoring disputes continue over neighborhood pollution data.