WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1451

TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF A STUDENT UNDER THE ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jane English and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1451 expands Arkansas's Concurrent Challenge Scholarship to include home-schooled students, allowing up to $250,000 in scholarships for grades 9-12.

Notification that HB1451 is now Act 353
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1451

Summary of House Bill 1451 (Act 353)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1451, now enacted as Act 353, amends the definition of a "student" under the Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship Program. The primary intent of this legislation is to expand eligibility for scholarship awards to include students enrolled in home schools, alongside those in public and private high schools.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces the following significant changes:

  1. Definition of Student:

    • The definition of "student" is updated to include:
      • Students in grades nine (9) through twelve (12).
      • Students enrolled in public high schools.
      • Students enrolled in private high schools.
      • Students enrolled in home schools, as defined in Arkansas Code § 6-15-501.

  2. Scholarship Distribution:

    • The bill allows for the distribution of scholarships totaling up to $250,000 for eligible students in grades nine through twelve.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The amendment broadens access to the Concurrent Challenge Scholarship Program, potentially benefiting a larger number of students, particularly those in home school settings.
    • Schools and educational institutions may see an increase in scholarship applications as a result of this expanded eligibility.

  • Financial Implications:

    • The fiscal impact statement indicates that the program has utilized significant net proceeds from the state lottery over the past four years, with amounts allocated for the Concurrent Challenge Scholarship ranging from approximately $2.6 million to $3.8 million annually.
    • The maximum estimated cost for the new or amended scholarship is set at $250,000.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 11, 2025
  • Amendment Adopted: February 25, 2025
  • Passed by House and Senate: March 17, 2025
  • Enacted as Act 353: March 20, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1451 represents a significant step towards inclusivity in Arkansas's educational funding programs by recognizing home-schooled students as eligible recipients of the Concurrent Challenge Scholarship. This change aims to provide more equitable access to financial resources for students pursuing higher education opportunities.

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

Sign in to ask a question.