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SB 164

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2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sally Harrell and 12 co-sponsors

SB 164 allows Arkansas public schools to hire or accept volunteer chaplains, enhancing support for students and parents while ensuring safety through background checks.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · SB 164

Summary of Senate Bill 164 (SB 164)

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 164 (SB 164) aims to authorize public schools in Arkansas to employ or accept volunteers as school chaplains. The bill seeks to provide support, services, and programs for students, staff, and parents within the school community, thereby enhancing the overall educational environment.

Key Provisions

  • Employment of Chaplains: Public schools may employ or accept volunteers as school chaplains to support students, staff, and parents.
  • Selection Criteria: Schools have the discretion to establish their own selection criteria for hiring or accepting chaplains.
  • Background Checks:
    • Chaplains must undergo statewide and nationwide criminal records checks, including fingerprinting, and a Child Maltreatment Central Registry check.
    • Schools are responsible for the costs associated with these background checks.
  • Eligibility:
    • Individuals who are registered or required to register as sex offenders are prohibited from serving as chaplains.
    • The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education will inform schools of an applicant's eligibility based on the background checks within 30 days.
  • Liability Protection: Chaplains are granted immunity from lawsuits for actions taken within the scope of their duties, except in cases of malicious intent.
  • Definitions: The bill provides definitions for key terms, including "public school," "school chaplain," and "religious organization."

Affected Parties

  • Public Schools: The bill directly impacts public schools and open-enrollment charter schools in Arkansas, allowing them to integrate chaplains into their staff or volunteer programs.
  • Students and Parents: The legislation is designed to benefit students and parents by providing additional support and resources through chaplaincy.
  • Religious Organizations: Organizations that provide religious ministries may play a role in credentialing chaplains.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Legislative Journey:
    • The bill was referred to the Education Committee and underwent several readings and votes.
    • It failed to pass on February 4, 2025, but a motion to expunge the vote was carried.
    • Ultimately, the bill died on the Senate Calendar at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025.

Conclusion

SB 164 represents an effort to enhance the support systems within Arkansas public schools by allowing the inclusion of chaplains. While the bill has faced challenges in the legislative process, its provisions highlight the ongoing discussion around the role of religious support in educational settings.

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

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