Arkansas Senate Bill SB422

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/25
• Refer: 3/11/25
• Report Pass: 3/19/25
• Engrossed: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25
• Report Pass: 4/3/25
• Enrolled: 4/9/25
• Chaptered: 4/14/25
• Passed: 4/14/25

Caption

To Allow Nonprofit Organizations To Contribute To A New Or Existing Arkansas Brighter Future Fund Plan Account; And To Require The Treasurer Of State To Facilitate Contributions By A Nonprofit Organization.

Impact

The amendment will broaden the definition of both 'account owner' and 'contributor' to include nonprofit organizations, effectively enabling these entities to establish accounts on behalf of specific beneficiaries or groups. This change is expected to promote collaboration between the state’s educational initiative and the nonprofit sector, potentially increasing the investment in children's education and future opportunities. Additionally, the Treasurer of State is tasked with facilitating these contributions, which highlights the state's commitment to improving educational access and support through community involvement.

Summary

Senate Bill 422 seeks to amend current laws regarding the Arkansas Brighter Future Fund Plan by permitting nonprofit organizations to contribute to newly established or existing accounts. This legislation aims to enhance the resources available for individuals who benefit from the Brighter Future Fund, primarily focusing on providing educational savings options for children. By allowing nonprofits to contribute, the bill intends to expand participation in the program and increase available funding for educational endeavors.

Contention

While supporters highlight the benefits of increased funding for educational savings accounts, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for misuse of funds or complications arising from nonprofit involvement in government-sponsored programs. Questions also arise regarding accountability and oversight of these new contributions, emphasizing the need for clear policies and regulations to ensure that the intentions of the fund are maintained. This aspect of the bill may provoke further discussions as legislators consider the implications of enhanced nonprofit contributions to state-managed educational funds.