Simmons was recognized by the 94th General Assembly for our efforts with the SAFER AR ACT – a bill signed by former Governor Asa Hutchinson that became law on July 1, 2021. The SAFER AR Act puts a spotlight on financial exploitation that provides banks and other financial institutions an improved mechanism to state and local authorities when they suspect financial abuse of the elderly and people with disabilities in Arkansas.
Steve Wade, EVP and assistant general legal counsel, for Simmons Bank played a lead role on the task force of lawmakers, including Congressman Carlton Wing and Lit. Governor Leslie Rutledge and banking professionals to collaborate, research and draft House Bill 1391.
In October 2022, Simmons Bank received a national award by the American Bankers Association Foundation for their work with the SAFER AR Act putting a spotlight on Financial Exploitation and helping the elderly and people with disabilities in Arkansas. Award winners were chosen by a field of nationally recognized experts.
Left to right: Lorrie Trogden from the Arkansas Bankers Association joined Simmons Bank associates Barbara Peck, Sharmane Hines, Steve Wade and Tina Groves as Representative Carlton Wing (far right) recognized Simmons Bank for the Arkansas General Assembly.