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Bill

HB 1728

TO REQUIRE REPORTING ON THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS RECEIVING ACCOMMODATIONS FOR A DISABILITY AT INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Breanne Davis and 1 co-sponsor

Act 906 requires Arkansas colleges to report annually on students with disabilities receiving accommodations, improving transparency and support for their educational outcomes.

Notification that HB1728 is now Act 906
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Bill Summary · HB 1728

Summary of House Bill 1728 (Act 906)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1728, now known as Act 906, aims to enhance transparency and data collection regarding students with disabilities in higher education institutions in Arkansas. The bill mandates that eligible institutions report annually on the number of students receiving accommodations for disabilities, thereby addressing a gap in the understanding of postsecondary outcomes for these students.

Key Provisions

  • Annual Reporting Requirement:

    • Institutions of higher education that are eligible for Title IV federal student aid must report to the Arkansas Division of Higher Education each year.
    • Reports must include:
    • The total number of students with disabilities registered to receive accommodations.
    • The percentage of these students relative to the total undergraduate population.
    • The total number of undergraduate certificates or degrees awarded to students with disabilities receiving accommodations.

  • Data Protection:

    • Institutions are not required to report data if doing so would reveal personally identifiable information or if the number of students with disabilities is less than 3% of the total student population.

  • Inclusion in Comprehensive Reports:

    • The reported data will be included in the Comprehensive Arkansas Higher Education Annual Report, ensuring that it is part of the broader assessment of higher education in the state.

Affected Parties

  • Higher Education Institutions: All Title IV eligible institutions in Arkansas will need to comply with the reporting requirements.
  • Students with Disabilities: The bill directly impacts students with disabilities by ensuring their needs and outcomes are documented and addressed.
  • State Education Authorities: The Arkansas Division of Higher Education will be responsible for collecting and analyzing the data reported by institutions.

Fiscal Impact

  • The bill is projected to have no additional fiscal impact, as the reporting requirement does not necessitate extra funding or resources.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 10, 2025
  • Passed: April 15, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 16, 2025
  • Notification of Act: April 21, 2025

Conclusion

Act 906 represents a significant step towards improving the educational landscape for students with disabilities in Arkansas. By mandating the collection and reporting of relevant data, the legislation aims to foster better understanding and support for this demographic, ultimately enhancing their postsecondary outcomes and integration into the workforce.

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

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