Arkansas Corrections Department Drops Plan to Ban Physical Books in Prisons

The Arkansas Department of Corrections has abandoned its effort to restrict incarcerated people from receiving hard-copy books and newspapers, according to the Arkansas Advocate. The department first proposed banning physical publications last year, arguing the measure would reduce drugs entering prisons. Instead, officials said the focus will shift to banning "misbehaving" third parties that sell publications laced with drugs to incarcerated people. The decision, reported on September 21, 2026, ends a policy push that drew attention from free-expression and library advocates. No further details on the revised enforcement approach were provided.