Arkansas Senate Bill SB362

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/3/25
• Refer: 4/3/25
• Report Pass: 4/9/25
• Engrossed: 4/14/25
• Failed: 5/5/25

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Education - Division Of Elementary And Secondary Education Youth Organization Grants Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

Impact

If enacted, SB362 would impact the landscape of youth education funding by reinforcing a shift towards organizations that uphold specific ideological beliefs. The appropriation may foster a particular brand of youth programming that emphasizes traditional values and depersonalizes inclusivity efforts often tied to DEI initiatives. Critics may argue that this could limit the diversity of programs available for youth development and engagement, potentially alienating organizations that provide critical services to underserved communities.

Summary

Senate Bill 362 aims to appropriate $2,000,000 in grants for youth organizations through the Arkansas Department of Education, specifically targeting organizations that align with the state's educational goals. This funding is intended for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The bill stipulates that grants shall not be awarded to organizations affiliated with or promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or any form of 'woke' ideologies, positioning these criteria as a prerequisite for eligibility.

Contention

Contention surrounding SB362 primarily revolves around its restrictive eligibility criteria, which many view as an effort to exclude progressive educational programs. Supporters assert that the bill aims to fund organizations that promote a healthy home environment and mold role models, while opponents flag concerns about stifling representation and inclusive practices in youth programming. The broader implications of such funding decisions may reflect an ideological divide in educational policies and priorities at the state level.