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Bill

HB 1365

TO REMOVE RACIAL AND GENDER QUOTAS AND QUALIFICATIONS OF MEMBERSHIP FOR CERTAIN BOARDS, COMMITTEES, COUNCILS, AND COMMISSIONS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Karilyn Brown

Arkansas eliminates racial and gender quota requirements for state board, committee, and commission membership, shifting to unrestricted appointment criteria.

Notification that HB1365 is now Act 938
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Bill Summary · HB 1365

Legislative bill overview

HB 1365 eliminates racial and gender quota requirements for membership on state boards, committees, councils, and commissions in Arkansas. The bill removes mandates that specified certain percentages or numbers of positions be filled by individuals of particular racial or gender groups. It has been signed into law as Act 938.

Why is this important

Board and commission composition affects policy implementation, resource allocation, and representation in state governance. These bodies influence decisions on education, healthcare, economic development, and other critical areas. Changes to membership qualification rules directly impact who can serve and how diversity is achieved in state government.

Potential points of contention

  • Representation concerns: Opponents argue removing diversity quotas may reduce underrepresented groups' voice in government decision-making, potentially affecting policies affecting their communities
  • Definition of "merit": Supporters and critics differ on whether quota elimination ensures "merit-based" selection or simply removes explicit diversity consideration from hiring criteria
  • Existing diversity levels: The practical impact depends on whether current boards already meet diversity targets through other means or whether removal will measurably reduce representation

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

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