Bill > SB90

This bill amends Arkansas school district board meeting requirements to mandate that members of the public be given an opportunity to provide public comments at board meetings. Specifically, the bill requires that before any business is considered, individuals who either reside in the school district, are parents/guardians of enrolled students, or are district employees can provide public comments. Each member of the public will be allowed at least three minutes to speak, and the board cannot require prior approval for public comments. However, comments cannot prejudice the board regarding student or personnel disciplinary or employment matters. If the public comment period exceeds 30 minutes, the board may move non-agenda comments to later in the meeting. The board can use a sign-up sheet for comments, but it must be accessible to the public until the meeting starts. This legislation aims to increase transparency and public participation in school district governance by ensuring a consistent and structured approach to public input during board meetings.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb90&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R