While there were a few bright spots, it was a tough year for racial equity and opportunity at the legislature. Lawmakers passed policies that will limit opportunities for many Arkansas families. They also failed to pass policies that would have given more Arkansans a chance to thrive and succeed in the future. These policies affect all low-income families. But they are especially hard on children and families of color because they face higher rates of poverty.  For example, 20 percent of white Arkansas children live in poverty. More than double that, 43 percent, of Hispanic children live in poverty. For African-American kids, it’s 50 percent!