Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1541

Introduced
2/20/25  
Refer
2/20/25  

Caption

To Require A Private School That Accepts State Funding Of Any Type To Provide Transportation To Certain Students Enrolled In The School.

Impact

The implementation of HB1541 could significantly alter the landscape of private education in Arkansas. By requiring private schools to absorb the costs associated with providing transportation, the bill could potentially lead to financial strains for these institutions. They may have to reassess their budgets, which could ultimately influence tuition rates or the availability of certain programs. Moreover, the requirement could make private education more accessible to students from various socioeconomic backgrounds, thereby increasing enrollment in these schools.

Summary

House Bill 1541 introduces a mandate for private schools that receive any form of state funding to provide transportation services to students living within thirty-five miles of the institution. This legislation aims to ensure that access to private education is equitable and that students who may face challenges in commuting to school are adequately supported. The bill applies to all private schools catering to kindergarten through twelfth grade, establishing a clear delineation between public and private educational responsibilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1541 may stem from concerns about the financial implications for private schools. Critics may argue that requiring transportation services could detract from the funds allocated for educational resources or extracurricular activities. Additionally, there may be debates about the extent of state involvement in private educational entities, with some advocating for less regulation while others emphasize the need for accountability when public funds are involved. This tension reflects broader discussions about the role of private institutions in the public education system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1205

To Require A School That Accepts State Funding Of Any Type To Provide Transportation To Certain Students Enrolled In The School.

AR HB1204

To Require Private Schools To Administer An Annual Statewide Student Assessment; And To Require Private Schools To Admit Each Student Who Applies For Admission And Intends To Cover Private School Costs With State Funding.

AR HB1539

To Repeal The Requirement That Public School Districts And Open-enrollment Public Charter Schools Offer Certain Courses To Expelled Students.

AR HB1157

To Require Public School Districts And Open-enrollment Public Charter Schools To Provide Information To Public School Students Regarding Water Safety Education Courses And Swimming Lessons.

AR HB1795

To Amend The Minimum Teacher Compensation Schedule Under The Public School Funding Act Of 2003 To Include Open-enrollment Public Charter Schools.

AR HB1415

To Amend Arkansas Constitution, Article 19, ยง 14, And Arkansas Law To Provide That Lottery Proceeds May Be Used For Scholarships And Grants To Arkansans Enrolled In Vocational-technical Schools And Technical Institutes.

AR HJR1006

A Constitutional Amendment To Provide That Lottery Proceeds May Be Used To Fund Or Provide Scholarships And Grants To Arkansas Citizens Enrolled In Vocational-technical Schools And Technical Institutes.

AR HB1587

To Require Home Schools That Receive Any Form Of Public Funds To Administer An Annual Student Assessment.

AR HB1689

To Amend The Public School Funding Act Of 2003; And To Create The Comprehensive Investment In Student Achievement Act.

AR SB384

To Require Public Schools To Provide Instruction On Adoption Awareness.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.