WeVote
Log In

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 451

Summary of Senate Bill 451 (SB 451)

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 451 aimed to enhance student mental health support in Arkansas by requiring the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Department of Education (ADE) to establish regional behavioral health programs. The bill sought to address the needs of students exhibiting behaviors that could pose risks to themselves or others, particularly in public schools and open-enrollment charter schools. Additionally, it aimed to amend existing laws regarding the education of students placed in juvenile detention facilities.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of Behavioral Health Programs:

    • DHS, in consultation with ADE, was mandated to create regional behavioral health programs by January 1, 2026.
    • These programs were to assist schools in locating appropriate services for students demonstrating potentially harmful behaviors.

  2. Behavioral Health Management Plans:

    • Programs were required to respond to school requests within 48 hours and develop individualized behavioral health management plans for referred students.

  3. Funding and Resources:

    • The bill called for the development of funding sources for students who could not afford care.
    • It specified that educational funding would follow students in these programs, ensuring they receive necessary educational services.

  4. Amendments to Existing Laws:

    • The bill proposed changes to the definition of residency for students in residential facilities and clarified the responsibilities of juvenile detention facilities regarding educational services.

  5. Emergency Declaration:

    • The bill included an emergency clause to expedite its implementation, reflecting the urgency of addressing student mental health needs.

Fiscal Impact

  • The estimated cost for implementing the behavioral health programs was projected to be between $128.3 million and $256.5 million annually, with a state share ranging from $38.8 million to $77.7 million.
  • The funding was expected to cover approximately 4,750 students, with costs per child estimated at $27,000 to $54,000 over a three to six-month program duration.

Affected Parties

  • Students: Primarily those in public schools and juvenile detention facilities who exhibit behaviors that may endanger themselves or others.
  • Schools: Public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools would be directly involved in the referral and management processes.
  • State Agencies: The DHS and ADE would be responsible for program implementation and funding allocation.

Legislative Actions and Status

  • SB 451 was introduced on March 13, 2025, and underwent several legislative actions, including amendments and committee reviews.
  • The bill ultimately died in the Senate at sine die adjournment on May 5, 2025, after being vetoed by the Governor on April 22, 2025.

Conclusion

While SB 451 aimed to create a structured approach to address behavioral health issues among students in Arkansas, its failure to pass highlights ongoing challenges in legislative support for mental health initiatives in education. The proposed programs and funding mechanisms reflect a significant investment in student well-being, emphasizing the need for effective mental health resources in schools.

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

Sign in to ask a question.