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On July 2, 2025, Arkansas saw significant changes in its trusts and estates landscape as new legislation was passed that will have a profound impact on inheritance laws in the state.One of the most notable changes is the amendment to the state's intestacy laws, which govern how a person's estate is distributed if they die without a will. Under the new legislation, the intestate share of a surviving spouse has been increased to ensure that they receive a larger portion of the deceased spouse's estate. This change is aimed at providing additional protection for surviving spouses and ensuring that they are adequately provided for in the event of their partner's death.In addition to changes in intestacy laws, the new legislation also includes updates to the state's trust laws. One of the key provisions is the introduction of the Uniform Trust Code, which aims to simplify and modernize trust administration in Arkansas. The Code includes provisions related to trustee duties, trust amendments, and beneficiary rights, among others. These changes are expected to make trust administration more efficient and transparent for both trustees and beneficiaries.Furthermore, the new legislation also includes updates to the state's estate tax laws. Arkansas previously had a separate state estate tax, but under the new legislation, the estate tax has been repealed. This change is expected to simplify estate planning for Arkansas residents and make it more tax-efficient for individuals to pass on their assets to their heirs.Overall, the new legislation represents a significant overhaul of Arkansas trusts and estates laws and is expected to have a lasting impact on how estates are administered and inherited in the state. Estate planning professionals and individuals with trusts and estates in Arkansas are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the changes brought about by the new legislation to ensure that their estate plans are in compliance with the updated laws.