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HB 1215

TO AUTHORIZE A COACH OR ATHLETICS PERSONNEL MEMBER OF THE OPPOSITE SEX TO ADDRESS, SUPERVISE, OR TREAT STUDENT ATHLETES IN A MULTIPLE OCCUPANCY RESTROOM OR CHANGING AREA UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Bentley and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1215 allows coaches to supervise student athletes in opposite-sex restrooms or changing areas, ensuring privacy and safety during athletic events.

Notification that HB1215 is now Act 119
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1215

Summary of House Bill 1215 (Act 119)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1215, now enacted as Act 119, aims to authorize coaches or athletics personnel members of the opposite sex to address, supervise, or treat student athletes in multiple occupancy restrooms or changing areas under specific conditions. The bill is designed to provide clarity on the roles of athletics personnel during athletic events while ensuring the safety and privacy of student athletes.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Arkansas Code § 6-21-120 to include the following provisions:

  1. Definitions:

    • Athletic Event: Organized activities sponsored by public schools or open-enrollment public charter schools.
    • Athletics Personnel: Includes athletic directors and individuals involved in organizing, training, or coaching student athletes.
    • Multiple Occupancy Restroom or Changing Area: Areas designed for use by multiple individuals, such as restrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, and shower rooms.

  2. Exceptions for Coaches and Athletics Personnel:

    • Coaches or athletics personnel may enter restrooms or changing areas designated for the opposite sex under certain conditions:
      • They must ensure that no individual is in a state of undress while they are present.
      • An additional adult must be present during their supervision or treatment of student athletes.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Student Athletes: Ensures their supervision and treatment during athletic events.
- Coaches and Athletics Personnel: Provides them with the authority to interact with student athletes in designated areas while maintaining privacy and safety protocols.
- Public Schools and Open-Enrollment Charter Schools: These institutions must comply with the new regulations regarding restroom and changing area access.

Fiscal Impact

According to the Arkansas Department of Education, there is no fiscal impact associated with the implementation of this bill.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 23, 2025
  • Senate Amendment Adopted: February 17, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: February 13, 2025
  • Enacted as Act 119: February 18, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1215 establishes guidelines for coaches and athletics personnel regarding their interactions with student athletes in restrooms and changing areas, emphasizing the importance of privacy and safety. The bill reflects a commitment to maintaining a supportive environment for student athletes while allowing necessary supervision and treatment during athletic events.

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

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