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Bill

SB 391

TO CREATE THE ROBOTICS COMPETITION GRANT PROGRAM FOR ELIGIBLE ROBOTICS TEAMS IN PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SCHOOLS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENCOURAGING STUDY IN THE FIELDS OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathan Dismang and 1 co-sponsor

Arkansas establishes a state grant program funding robotics competition teams in public and private schools to boost student STEM engagement and skills development.

Notification that SB391 is now Act 472
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Bill Summary · SB 391

Legislative bill overview

SB 391 establishes a state grant program in Arkansas that provides funding to robotics competition teams in both public and private schools. The legislation aims to support student participation in robotics activities as a means of promoting interest and proficiency in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

Why is this important

Robotics competition programs are widely recognized as effective vehicles for developing practical STEM skills, problem-solving abilities, and workforce readiness in students. By providing grant funding, Arkansas is attempting to expand access to these programs, particularly for schools that may lack resources to fund robotics teams independently, potentially increasing the pipeline of STEM-trained graduates for the state's future workforce.

Potential points of contention

  • Eligibility and equity concerns: The bill's effectiveness depends heavily on how "eligible" teams are defined—whether all schools can realistically participate or if criteria inadvertently favor well-resourced districts
  • Funding adequacy: Without specified appropriation amounts, it's unclear whether grant funding will be substantial enough to meaningfully support team operations, equipment costs, and competition participation
  • Implementation details: The bill lacks visible details on application processes, selection criteria, oversight mechanisms, and how funding will be distributed across public and private schools equitably

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

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