Arkansas House Bill HB1337

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Engrossed: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Classify A Building Or Space Used For A Public Early Childhood Education Program Or For A Safe Room For Students As An Academic Facility Under The Arkansas Public School Academic Facilities Funding Act.

Impact

The implications of HB1337 are significant as it would allow facilities associated with early childhood education to access funding and resources previously unavailable to them. By categorizing safe rooms as academic facilities, the bill underscores the urgent need for schools to offer safe environments for students, especially in light of rising safety concerns in educational settings. This classification may lead to increased financial support for schools to establish or upgrade facilities that cater to these categories, thereby improving overall educational outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 1337 seeks to amend the Arkansas Public School Academic Facilities Funding Act by expanding the definition of what constitutes an academic facility. Specifically, it aims to ensure that public buildings or spaces used for early childhood education programs are classified as academic facilities. Furthermore, the bill introduces a new classification for buildings or spaces designated as safe rooms for students, recognizing their importance in providing security against potential dangers. This legislative change is intended to enhance the state's educational infrastructure and funding framework to better support early education initiatives and student safety.

Contention

While supporters of HB1337 argue that the bill enhances the safety and educational opportunities for young children, there may also be contention surrounding the allocation of funds and resources. Critics might raise concerns about equal access to funding for all types of facilities and whether prioritizing safe rooms and early childhood programs could detract from other educational needs. The discussion around HB1337 reveals a broader dialogue regarding the best methods of funding education and ensuring that all students have access to safe and conducive learning environments.