Arkansas Ranked Most Pro-Life State for Seventh Year, Sanders Says

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced Wednesday in Alexander, Arkansas, that the state has been ranked the most pro-life state in America for the seventh consecutive year. The designation comes from annual rankings released by Americans United for Life, which evaluates all 50 states based on laws protecting the disabled, the elderly, the terminally ill, and the unborn.

Governor Sanders stated she is “incredibly proud” of the ranking, adding that “every life is a gift from our Creator, made in His image, and is worth defending.” John Mize, CEO of Americans United for Life, described Arkansas as a “model for all states” following the Dobbs decision, noting that the state has maintained this leadership position every year under Governor Sanders.

Arkansas Passes Laws to Protect Life in Womb

Arkansas has passed more than 65 laws protecting life in the womb over the last 53 years. In 2021, the state’s law prohibiting abortion except to save the life of the mother became effective after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Center.

Since taking office, Governor Sanders has signed further legislation to strengthen these protections, including:

Act 973 of 2025: Prohibits abortions performed because of the race of an unborn child.
Act 485 of 2025: Prohibits the administration of abortion drugs to a pregnant woman without her consent.
Act 1006 of 2025, Act 125 of 2024, and Act 622 of 2023.

Advocates Seek to Protect the Most Vulnerable

Jerry Cox, President of the Arkansas Family Council, said the ranking reflects a commitment to the sanctity of innocent human life, including those nearing the end of life and people with disabilities. He stated the council’s goal is to work with the legislature and Governor Sanders to ensure Arkansas is the “safest place in America for the most vulnerable.”

Amber Singleton, Executive Director of Arkansas Right to Life, called the seven-year streak “historic.” Singleton highlighted current challenges regarding “deregulated abortion pill flooding into our state” and the resulting harm to pregnant mothers. She said women need information on abortion alternatives and fetal development to make informed decisions.