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SB 604

Portable Benefits Accounts for Independent Contractors and Sole Proprietors

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan Ávila

SB 604 expands Arkansas' Course Choice Program, allowing grades 6-12 students in underperforming schools to access diverse courses from various providers, enhancing educational opportunities.

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Bill Summary · SB 604

Summary of SB 604: Amendments to the Course Choice Program

Bill Number: SB 604
Title: To Amend Provisions of the Arkansas Code Regarding the Course Choice Program
Status: Now Act 730
Introduced: April 1, 2025
Sponsor: Senator B. Davis, Representative Brooks

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 604 aims to amend existing provisions of the Arkansas Code related to the Course Choice Program. The primary goal of the bill is to enhance educational opportunities for students in grades 6 through 12 by allowing them to enroll in courses offered by various educational entities, including online providers and postsecondary institutions, particularly when their home schools do not offer specific courses.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to the Course Choice Program:

  1. Definitions and Eligibility:

    • Course Provider: Expanded to include various entities such as online education providers, postsecondary institutions, and vocational training businesses, excluding public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools.
    • Eligible Students: Defined as students in grades 6-12 who either attend a public school that does not offer a desired course or attend a school rated "C," "D," or "F" and wish to take a required graduation course.

  2. Program Structure:

    • Establishes a formal Course Choice Program with guidelines for course providers, including compliance with state laws and educational standards.
    • Requires the State Board of Education to develop rules by the 2026-2027 school year to facilitate the program's implementation.

  3. Course Provider Authorization:

    • Initial authorization for course providers is set for three years, with performance reviews conducted by the State Board of Education to assess student outcomes.
    • Providers not meeting performance standards may be placed on probation.

  4. Course Credits and Transcripts:

    • Credits earned through course providers will be recognized on students' official transcripts and count towards graduation requirements.

  5. Testing and Performance Reporting:

    • Aggregate test scores of students participating in the program will be included in annual performance reports for their home schools.

Impact

  • Students: The bill is designed to provide greater access to educational resources for students in underperforming schools or those seeking specialized courses not available at their home institutions.
  • Educational Institutions: Course providers will need to meet specific criteria and undergo evaluations to maintain their status, ensuring a focus on quality education.
  • Funding: While the fiscal impact statement indicates no direct revenue impact, there may be implications for district funding based on student participation in the program.

Procedural Timeline

  • April 1, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • April 3, 2025: Passed by the Senate and sent to the House.
  • April 15, 2025: Passed by the House and returned to the Senate.
  • April 18, 2025: Notification that SB 604 is now Act 730.

In summary, SB 604 represents a significant step towards improving educational access and quality for Arkansas students, particularly those in less favorable school environments. The amendments aim to create a more structured and accountable Course Choice Program that aligns with state educational standards.

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

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