Bill
HB 1480
HB 1480 expands Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship eligibility by including more colleges and vocational schools, increasing financial aid access for students.
# Summary of House Bill 1480 (HB 1480)
## Bill Information
- **Bill Number:** HB 1480
- **Title:** Relating to Housing
- **Status:** Referred to HSG, WAL, JHA
- **Introduced:** February 13, 2025
- **Classification:** Bill
- **Subject:** Development, Exemptions, Housing, Transit-Oriented Zones
## Purpose and Intent
House Bill 1480 aims to amend the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program and redefine what constitutes an "approved institution of higher education." The bill seeks to enhance educational opportunities and access to financial aid for students attending various types of educational institutions in Arkansas.
## Key Provisions
- **Amendment of Definitions:** The bill revises the definition of "approved institution of higher education" to include:
- State-supported two-year and four-year colleges.
- Private, nonprofit two-year and four-year colleges or universities located in Arkansas that are eligible for Title IV federal student aid.
- Approved schools of nursing and vocational-technical schools that are bonded and insured.
- Training programs that offer certificates and are part of state-supported colleges or universities.
- **Eligibility for Financial Aid:** The amendments will allow more institutions to participate in the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program, potentially increasing the number of students eligible for financial aid.
## Affected Parties
- **Students:** The bill will primarily benefit students seeking higher education in Arkansas by broadening the range of institutions eligible for scholarships.
- **Educational Institutions:** Various colleges, universities, vocational schools, and training programs will be impacted as they may now qualify for participation in the scholarship program.
## Procedural Aspects
- **Legislative Timeline:**
- **February 13, 2025:** Bill filed and read for the first time.
- **February 13, 2025:** Rules suspended, read a second time, and referred to the Education Committee.
- **March 18, 2025:** Bill withdrawn by the author.
- **Related Legislation:** There is a companion bill, SB 806, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to HB 1480.
## Conclusion
HB 1480 represents a significant step towards improving access to higher education funding in Arkansas by expanding the definition of eligible institutions for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program. The bill's withdrawal indicates that further discussions or revisions may be necessary before it can be reintroduced or passed.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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