AR
Arkansas Senate Bill SB243

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB243

Introduced
2/17/25  
Refer
2/17/25  

Caption

To Amend The Law Regarding Lottery-funded Scholarship Programs.

Impact

The proposed changes under SB243 could significantly impact the distribution of lottery funds designated for scholarships, which have been a key resource for many Arkansas residents pursuing education. By revising the current statutory framework, the bill is expected to broaden the scope of who can apply for these scholarships, potentially increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups in higher education. Furthermore, the adjustments may lead to a more transparent oversight mechanism for how these funds are managed and utilized.

Summary

Senate Bill 243 seeks to amend existing laws pertaining to lottery-funded scholarship programs in the state of Arkansas. The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the lottery funds are utilized effectively and equitably to support students pursuing higher education. As the state continues to face various challenges regarding the allocation of educational resources, this legislation aims to streamline the distribution processes and modify eligibility criteria for scholarship applicants to enhance accessibility and fairness in funding.

Contention

There are anticipated debates surrounding SB243, particularly regarding concerns about how changes to eligibility criteria might affect students from diverse backgrounds. Critics may argue that loosening restrictions could lead to a dilution of resources, thereby disadvantaging students with the greatest financial needs. Additionally, some may point to the need for thorough analysis on how these amendments will alter the overall funding landscape for education in Arkansas, given the delicate balance of resources that must support various educational programs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1413

To Amend The Lottery-funded Scholarship Programs To Include Vocational-technical Schools And Technical Institutes As Approved Institutions Of Higher Education.

AR HB1113

To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning The Award Of Scholarships Under The Succeed Scholarship Program To Students In Foster Care.

AR HB1412

To Require The Division Of Higher Education To Promulgate Certain Rules Concerning The Administration Of Scholarships Funded With State Funds And Lottery Proceeds; And To Declare An Emergency.

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 SB3

To Amend The Definition Of A Dependent For Purposes Of Higher Education Scholarships; And To Amend The Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program.

AR SB248

To Create The Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship Program.

AR SB202

To Amend The Maximum Scholarship Award Amount A Student May Receive Under The Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship Program.

AR HB1747

To Amend The Law Concerning Rural Medical Practice Student Loans And Scholarships; And To Amend The Law To Include Students Enrolled In Additional Medical Programs As Eligible For Receipt Of Rural Medical Practice Loans.

AR SB476

To Create The Rural Veterinary Student Scholarship Program; To Create The Agri Scholarship Program To Be Administered By The Department Of Agriculture; And To Create The Agri Scholarship Program Fund Within The Department Of Agriculture.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.