Bill > HB1755

This bill requires all public schools in Arkansas to participate in the Arkansas Prevention Needs Assessment Survey (APNAS) beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. The survey will focus on collecting data about students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 regarding issues such as alcohol, tobacco, drug use, mental health, academic failure, and violence. The Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health within the Department of Human Services will maintain the survey and provide technical assistance to schools for administration and reporting. School district superintendents must provide written notification to parents and legal guardians before the survey, with an option for parents to opt their child out by submitting written notice. The survey results will be annually shared with key legislative leaders in the Senate and House, including education and public health committee chairs. The survey's implementation is contingent on federal funding availability, meaning if sufficient funds are not available, the survey is not mandatory. The bill also allows the Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health and the State Board of Education to develop rules for implementing the survey, with the ultimate goal of helping public schools, districts, and communities develop more effective prevention and intervention strategies for student well-being.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1755&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R