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HB 1733

TO AMEND VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE CONCERNING THE ARKANSAS BETTER CHANCE PROGRAM ACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Caldwell and 2 co-sponsors

Act 504 streamlines early childhood education in Arkansas by consolidating programs, setting uniform eligibility, and enhancing access for families in need.

Notification that HB1733 is now Act 504
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Bill Summary · HB 1733

Summary of House Bill 1733 (Act 504)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1733, now known as Act 504, aims to amend various provisions of the Arkansas Code related to the Arkansas Better Chance Program Act. The primary intent of the bill is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of early childhood education programs in Arkansas by consolidating the Arkansas Better Chance Program and the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success Program.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes:

  1. Consolidation of Programs:

    • The Arkansas Better Chance Program and the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success Program will be combined to streamline administration and resource utilization.

  2. Eligibility Criteria:

    • The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will establish uniform eligibility criteria for both programs, ensuring that they align with the qualifications for the 2024-2025 school year.

  3. Program Development:

    • Local schools are mandated to collaborate with DESE to develop programs under the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success Program, particularly in districts classified as needing intensive support.

  4. Funding and Grants:

    • DESE will be responsible for awarding grants or contracts to early childhood programs that meet established programmatic standards.
    • The bill allows DESE to allocate up to 2% of available funds for the administration and monitoring of both programs.

  5. Repeal of Outdated Provisions:

    • The bill repeals Arkansas Code § 6-45-108, which previously outlined criteria for determining need, thereby simplifying the eligibility process.

Affected Parties

  • Children: The bill directly impacts children from birth to five years of age, particularly those from families with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
  • Families: Families seeking early childhood education resources will benefit from a more efficient program structure.
  • Childcare Providers: The consolidation aims to promote better resource management among childcare providers in Arkansas.

Fiscal Impact

According to the Fiscal Impact Statement prepared by the Arkansas Department of Education, there is no fiscal impact associated with this bill.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 11, 2025
  • Passed by House: April 1, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 8, 2025
  • Enacted as Act 504: April 10, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1733 represents a significant step towards improving early childhood education in Arkansas by consolidating resources and streamlining eligibility criteria. This legislative change is expected to enhance access to quality preschool education for families across the state.

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

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