Arkansas Senate Bill SB352

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/11/25
• Report Pass: 3/12/25
• Engrossed: 3/13/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Report Pass: 4/10/25

Caption

To Prohibit Antisemitism In Public Elementary And Secondary Schools; And To Prohibit Antisemitism In State-supported Institutions Of Higher Education.

Impact

If enacted, SB352 will require schools to adopt policies that define antisemitism and outline prohibited conduct related to this discrimination. Moreover, it encourages education institutions to implement antisemitism awareness training for students and staff, and to integrate Jewish-American heritage into curriculums, thereby promoting tolerance and respect throughout educational environments.

Summary

Senate Bill 352 aims to address and prohibit antisemitism in public elementary and secondary schools, as well as in state-supported institutions of higher education. The bill recognizes a historic rise in antisemitic violence and discrimination faced by Jewish students in these educational settings. It mandates that schools treat harassment motivated by this form of discrimination in the same manner as they would any racial discrimination, thus aligning with current federal civil rights laws.

Contention

Discussions around the bill may highlight disagreements regarding the effectiveness and necessity of such measures. Supporters cite the increasing reports and research evidencing antisemitism on campuses, asserting the need for institutional accountability. Critics could argue that similar measures may infringe upon free speech, especially concerning the treatment of criticism directed towards Israel, which the bill explicitly notes should not be misconstrued as antisemitic if it parallels critiques of other nations.