HOT SPRINGS — An Arkansas lawmaker who was arrested after authorities said he didn't file an income tax return for 15 years has pleaded not guilty.
Republican state Rep. Mickey Gates on Tuesday pleaded not guilty to six felony counts of failing to file or pay an income tax return.
Gates was arrested in June after authorities said he owed Arkansas nearly $260,000 in back taxes, penalties and interest. Circuit Judge Brad Karren scheduled Gates' next court appearance for Jan. 3.
Democrats and top Republicans, including Gov. Asa Hutchinson, have called on Gates to step down after the charges. Gates is running for re-election against Democrat Kevin Rogers in November.
Gates was suspended from leadership positions and select committee assignments in the House after his arrest.