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Bill Summary · HB 1539

Summary of House Bill 1539

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 1539
Title: To Amend the Public School Funding Act of 2003; and to Add an Additional Education Category of Funding for Special Education
Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Sponsor: Representative A. Collins and others

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1539 aimed to amend the Public School Funding Act of 2003 by introducing an additional category of funding specifically for special education. The bill sought to address the underfunding of special education services in Arkansas public schools and to ensure that funding is allocated more equitably based on the actual number of students with special needs.

Key Provisions

  1. Increased Funding for Special Education:

    • The bill proposed to shift special education funding from foundation funding to categorical funding, ensuring that funds are specifically designated for special education services.
    • It recognized that current funding mechanisms do not adequately reflect the number of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

  2. Funding Adjustments:

    • The bill included provisions for increasing the foundation funding amounts for public schools:
      • For the 2025-2026 school year, the foundation funding amount would rise to $8,165 per student.
      • For the 2026-2027 school year and thereafter, it would increase to $8,361 per student.

  3. Support for Classified Staff:

    • The bill called for a significant increase in pay for public school classified staff, proposing a minimum salary of $15 per hour and a $4 per hour raise to address recruitment and retention issues.

  4. Mental Health Support:

    • It emphasized the need for additional funding for counselors and social workers in schools, proposing a ratio of either two counselors or one counselor and one social worker for every 500 students.

  5. Fiscal Impact:

    • The estimated fiscal impact was projected at $277.6 million for the first year and $271.5 million for the second year, reflecting the increased funding requirements for special education and staff salaries.

Affected Parties

  • Students with Special Needs: The bill aimed to provide better resources and support for students with IEPs, ensuring they receive the necessary educational services.
  • Public School Districts: Schools would be required to allocate funds specifically for special education, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes.
  • Classified Staff: The proposed salary increases would directly benefit classified staff members, addressing long-standing pay issues.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on February 20, 2025, and was read and referred to the House Education Committee.
  • It ultimately died in committee on May 5, 2025, at the Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress to a vote or further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 1539 represented an effort to enhance funding for special education in Arkansas, aiming to create a more equitable and adequate educational environment for all students. Despite its potential benefits, the bill did not advance beyond the committee stage.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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