Relating to: possession of a firearm on school grounds by school employees and fees for licenses to carry a concealed weapon. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Nass and 1 co-sponsor

SB 167 extends the student transfer application deadline to June 1, enhancing options for families in underperforming schools and ensuring timely notifications from districts.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 167 (SB 167) aims to amend the deadlines for submitting applications for student transfers under the Arkansas Opportunity Public School Choice Act and the Public School Choice Act of 2015. The bill seeks to streamline the transfer process for students, particularly those in underperforming schools, by adjusting the timeline for when transfer requests can be made.

Key Provisions

Transfer Application Dates:

The bill modifies the submission period for transfer applications from the current deadline of May 1 to June 1 of the year preceding the school year in which the transfer is sought.
This change applies to all students, including foster children, who wish to transfer from their resident school district to a nonresident school district.

Notification Requirements:

School districts classified as needing intensive support or rated "F" must notify parents or guardians of available transfer options as soon as practicable after the designation is made.
By July 1 of the school year in which the student seeks to enroll, the nonresident district must inform the parent or guardian of the acceptance or rejection of the transfer application.

Foster Children:

The bill specifies that foster children must submit their transfer requests by June 1, aligning with the new timeline for all students.

Eligibility for Athletic Participation:

The bill clarifies that a Changing Schools/Athletic Participation form is required for students transferring to ensure eligibility in sports, applicable for those entering grades 7-12.

Affected Parties

Students and Families: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students, particularly those in underperforming schools, and their families, who will have more flexibility in choosing educational options.

School Districts: Both resident and nonresident school districts will need to adjust their processes to accommodate the new deadlines and notification requirements.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Journey:

Introduced on January 31, 2025, SB 167 has undergone several amendments and has been passed by both the Senate and the House.
The bill was reported correctly enrolled and delivered to the Governor on April 9, 2025, and was subsequently enacted as Act 563 on April 14, 2025.

Conclusion

SB 167 represents a significant adjustment to the public school transfer process in Arkansas, aiming to enhance educational opportunities for students in need. By extending the application deadline and clarifying notification requirements, the bill seeks to provide families with greater access to quality education options.

Bill