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AR SB266

AR SB266
To Authorize A Public School To Adopt A Policy For One Or More Student Mentors.


summary

Introduced
02/20/2025
In Committee
03/18/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
05/05/2025

Introduced Session

Potential new amendment
95th General Assembly (2025 Regular)

Bill Summary

AN ACT CONCERNING SCHOOL CHAPLAINS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

AI Summary

This bill authorizes public schools in Arkansas to adopt policies allowing school chaplains to provide support, services, and programs for students, staff, and parents. The bill requires that any school implementing a chaplain program must: inform parents about chaplain availability, obtain parental consent before a student can participate in chaplain-provided services, and allow parents to choose a specific chaplain if multiple are available. The bill mandates that schools publish a list of chaplains, including their religious affiliations, on their websites. Before a chaplain can access school grounds or interact with students, they must undergo comprehensive background checks, including statewide and nationwide criminal records checks and a Child Maltreatment Central Registry check, paid for by the school. Chaplains who are registered sex offenders are prohibited from participating. The bill defines a school chaplain as a clergy member who volunteers or is employed by a public school, functions in a pluralistic environment, and supports the free exercise of religion for all individuals. The legislation applies to both traditional public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools, emphasizing parental choice and child safety in the implementation of chaplain programs.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. (on 05/05/2025)

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