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Bill

HB 1633

TO AMEND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATING IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES FOR CERTAIN STUDENTS WHO TRANSFER SCHOOLS; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Brooks and 6 co-sponsors

Act 475 allows homeschooled and transferring students in Arkansas to join extracurricular activities immediately if approved by June 1, enhancing access and participation.

Notification that HB1633 is now Act 475
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1633

Summary of House Bill 1633 (Act 475)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1633, now known as Act 475, aims to amend the eligibility requirements for students participating in extracurricular activities, particularly focusing on homeschooled students and those transferring schools. The bill seeks to streamline the process for these students to engage in interscholastic activities at both public and private schools in Arkansas.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to existing laws regarding student eligibility:

  1. Homeschooled Students:

    • Homeschooled students may participate in interscholastic athletic activities at public schools if approved by June 1 of the school year for grades 7-10.
    • If not approved by this date, they will be ineligible for up to 365 days.
    • Students withdrawing from an Arkansas Activities Association member school to homeschool will be immediately eligible for activities at their resident public school if they meet the June 1 deadline.

  2. Transfer Students:

    • Students transferring to a nonpublic school will be eligible to participate in extracurricular athletic activities immediately upon enrollment by June 1 for grades 7-10.
    • Similar to homeschooled students, if they miss the June 1 deadline, they will face a 365-day eligibility restriction for varsity athletic activities.

  3. General Eligibility:

    • The bill clarifies that students who have not withdrawn from an Arkansas Activities Association member school can participate in activities immediately upon approval by their resident public school or private school, provided they meet the June 1 deadline.

Affected Parties

  • Students: Primarily impacts homeschooled students and those transferring between schools, allowing them greater access to extracurricular activities.
  • Schools: Public and private schools will need to adapt to the new eligibility criteria and processes for approving student participation.

Fiscal Impact

The fiscal impact statement indicates that there is no expected revenue impact from this legislation, as prepared by the Arkansas Department of Education.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 28, 2025
  • Passed: The bill underwent several readings and amendments before being passed by the House and Senate.
  • Emergency Clause: An emergency clause was adopted, allowing the bill to take effect immediately upon being signed into law.
  • Enacted: The bill was officially enacted as Act 475 on April 8, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1633 (Act 475) represents a significant shift in the eligibility requirements for students wishing to participate in extracurricular activities in Arkansas. By facilitating easier access for homeschooled and transferring students, the legislation aims to promote inclusivity and participation in school sports and activities.

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

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