This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of July 27, 2025! I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at national politics and the Arkansans influencing the discussions.

The U.S. Senate is in its final week of legislative business before its August recess period. The House of Representatives started its annual break early as House Republican leaders sought to prevent votes over releasing more information about Jeffrey Epstein.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., spent the final week renewing his call for permitting reform. The Hot Springs congressman introduced legislation on Friday aimed at changing environmental reviews to streamline the permitting process.

STORY: Westerman pushes for NEPA changes to expedite energy project permitting

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., announced multiple measures last week addressing concerns among young families, including heavy metals in baby formula and hospital policies for providing life-saving care to newborn babies. Cotton, of Little Rock, tied the bills to his own experiences as a parent, as well as stories from friends handling the challenges of parenthood.

Check Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!