History
Family Council was established by Jerry Cox in 1989, following the successful passage of an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution prohibiting the public funding of abortion. Family Council is part of a nationwide network of State Family Policy Councils associated with Focus on the Family and Dr. James Dobson.

We are at the forefront of the fight to protect the sanctity of human life from conception until natural death.  Over the years we have secured passage of legislation to prevent partial-birth abortions, prevent the cloning of human embryos, prevent abortions without parental consent, prevent abortions without sufficient information, and made physician-assisted suicide illegal.  In addition we have worked to uphold the rights of nursing home patients and others in long-term care facilities.

Family Council is a leader in the fight to protect marriage.  In 2004 we formed the Arkansas Marriage Amendment Committee and, after gathering over 200,000 petition signatures, we worked for the successful passage of a State Constitutional Amendment that defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman.  The amendment passed with 75% of the vote.

Family Council is a leader in protecting the welfare of foster and adoptive children.  In 2008 we worked with the Family Council Action Committee to secure passage of a state law that prevents adoptive or foster children from being placed with unmarried couples—gay or straight.  The measure passed with 57% of the vote statewide.

Family Council is a strong conservative voice at the State Capitol when the Arkansas Legislature is in session.  We review every bill introduced, advise lawmakers, provide committee testimony, and help citizens across the state make their voices heard in the halls of government.

Family Council is an influential conservative voice in the media. When social and moral issues rise to the forefront of the public debate, we provide a biblical perspective on issues ranging from abortion, to homosexuality, to taxes, to health care, to the role of government.  We are frequently quoted in the newspapers, interviewed for TV and radio news, and we are active on the Internet.

Our offices are located near the State Capitol Building in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas.