Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB400

Introduced
3/9/23  
Refer
3/9/23  
Refer
3/29/23  
Refer
3/30/23  
Report Pass
4/3/23  
Engrossed
4/4/23  
Refer
4/4/23  
Report Pass
4/6/23  
Enrolled
4/7/23  
Chaptered
4/12/23  

Caption

To Amend The Public School Choice Act Of 2015; And To Amend The Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act.

Impact

If enacted, SB400 will specifically prevent school districts from imposing restrictions or discipline against students who exercise their right to transfer. It requires that students complete a form regarding their participation in athletics, which must be signed by relevant authorities, ensuring that the process is transparent and regulated. This bill is expected to have a significant impact on student mobility and the landscape of extracurricular opportunities in Arkansas schools, supporting the idea that students should be able to pursue the best educational fit for their needs.

Summary

Senate Bill 400 aims to amend the Public School Choice Act of 2015 and the Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act. The bill is designed to ensure that students transferring to nonresident school districts are not denied participation in extracurricular activities solely based on their transfer. This legislative change highlights a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and rights for students across Arkansas, reinforcing the notion that a student's decision to change schools should not limit their participation in school activities, particularly sports.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB400 appears largely supportive, with proponents emphasizing the need to protect students' rights when transferring schools. Supporters argue that it promotes fairness and equity in education by allowing students to transition smoothly without being penalized. There appears to be a consensus among legislators and advocates advocating for enhanced access to extracurricular programs, which play a vital role in student life and development.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention include concerns about potential abuses of the transfer policy, particularly in regards to students transferring solely for athletic advantages. The bill addresses this by requiring a verification process to prevent recruiting by school personnel, thus attempting to balance the protection of student rights with the integrity of school sports programs. This tension reflects ongoing debates about educational equity versus competitive fairness in athletics and community interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB37

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB71

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Reappropriation.

AR HCR1002

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR SR23

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR SR13

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Amend The Uniform Money Services Act.

AR SB14

An Act For The Arkansas Public Defender Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1017

An Act For The Arkansas Public Service Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HR1018

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Amend The Uniform Money Services Act.

AR HB1073

An Act For The Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1041

An Act For The Department Of Education - Division Of Elementary And Secondary Education - Public School Fund Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

AR SB205

To Amend The Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act; And To Amend The Public School Choice Act Of 2015.

AR SB624

To Amend The Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act; To Amend The Public School Choice Act Of 2015; And To Allow A Student To Transfer To Another Public School Within His Or Her Resident District.

AR HB1945

To Amend The Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act; To Amend The Public School Choice Act Of 2015; And To Allow A Student To Transfer To Another Public School Within His Or Her Resident District.

AR SB482

To Repeal The Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act; To Amend The Law Relating To Transfers Of Students Between Public Schools And School Districts; And To Amend The Public School Choice Act Of 2015.

MO SB5

Allows the enrollment of nonresident students in public school districts

MO SB1010

Allows the enrollment of nonresident students in public school districts

MO HB711

Establishes transfer procedures to nonresident districts for students in public schools

MO SB1051

Allows the enrollment of nonresident students in public school districts