Legislators question Arkansas prison board's actions (UALR Public Radio) - Several legislators are questioning why the state board overseeing the Arkansas prison system hasn't taken any action over a recent spate of incidents, including an escape by two convicted murderers.

Several legislators questioned why the board hasn't discussed the recent escape by two inmates or another inmate's near death. One legislator noted board minutes showed no signs of discussing the problems.

Rep. Davy Carter, R-Cabot, said it "just looks like nobody's watching the hen house" after the recent problems. State Sen. Kim Hendren, R-Gravette, questioned whether the seven board members shouldn't be fired from their positions.

Prison director Larry Norris says he talked with board members informally one-on-one, but apparently never in a formal meeting open to the public.

State Sen. Steve Faris, D-Malvern, has suggested giving authority to a legislative committee with subpoena power to investigate the recent problems.

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