Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB46

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  
Report Pass
1/27/25  
Engrossed
1/28/25  
Refer
1/28/25  
Report Pass
2/4/25  
Enrolled
2/5/25  
Chaptered
2/12/25  

Caption

To Reflect A Merger Between The University Of Arkansas And East Arkansas Community College By Changing The Name Of East Arkansas Community College To The University Of Arkansas East Arkansas Community College.

Impact

If enacted, SB46 would amend several Arkansas Code sections to reflect the merger, transferring all statutory authority, personnel, and assets from Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute to East Arkansas Community College. This includes responsibilities for vocational and workforce programs, which would be funded by existing educational development funds previously allocated to Crowley’s Ridge. Supporters of the bill argue that this merger can improve educational efficiency and enhance the availability of vocational training tailored to meet local economic needs.

Summary

Senate Bill 46 proposes a merger between Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute and East Arkansas Community College, leading to the latter being renamed the University of Arkansas East Arkansas Community College. The bill aims to streamline operations and educational offerings in the region by consolidating resources, rights, and functions from the defunct Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute to East Arkansas Community College. This consolidation is designed to enhance workforce development and technical education programs within the newly merged institution.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB46 appears to be supportive, particularly among legislators advocating for improved educational resources and access to vocational training in the region. Stakeholders within the educational community see value in unifying these institutions for better student outcomes. However, some may express concern regarding the possible loss of the unique identity or programs that Crowley’s Ridge Technical Institute provided prior to the merger.

Contention

Notable points of contention might arise around the realignment of funding and resources as well as the potential displacement of faculty and programs. Critics may fear that merging these institutions could dilute specific vocational training unique to Crowley's Ridge, impacting students who relied on those specialized programs. Additionally, the transition may face challenges as stakeholders navigate the administrative complexities involved in the merger process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1383

To Amend The Name Of "south Arkansas Community College" To "south Arkansas College"; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB62

An Act For The University Of Arkansas Community College At Morrilton Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1049

An Act For The East Arkansas Community College Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1226

An Act For The East Arkansas Community College Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1047

An Act For The Phillips Community College Of The University Of Arkansas Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB107

An Act For The University Of Arkansas Community College At Morrilton Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1212

An Act For The Phillips Community College Of The University Of Arkansas Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1046

An Act For The Cossatot Community College Of The University Of Arkansas Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1043

An Act For The University Of Arkansas Community College At Hope-texarkana Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1059

An Act For The University Of Arkansas Community College At Rich Mountain Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

AR HR1004

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR SR23

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

AR HCR1002

To Recognize The Arkansas Committee Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts For Thirty-five Years Of Creative Contributions To The Citizens Of Arkansas And Continuous Support Of Women Artists In Arkansas.

TX HR1893

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of the incorporation of Crowley.

TX HR40

Congratulating Rick Crowley on his retirement as Rockwall city manager.

KY SCR34

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION honoring the life of Patrick "Pat" J. Crowley.

AR HB1508

To Recodify Title 19 Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Public Finance; And To Amend Laws Resulting From Initiated Acts 2000, No. 1; And To Make Conforming Changes To The Arkansas Code.

AZ SB1614

Financial institution; depositories