Arkansas 2024 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB71

Introduced

4/11/24

Refer

4/15/24

Introduced

4/11/24

Report Pass

4/17/24

Refer

4/15/24

Engrossed

4/18/24

Report Pass

4/17/24

Enrolled

4/24/24

Engrossed

4/18/24

Chaptered

4/30/24

Enrolled

4/24/24

Chaptered

4/30/24

Passed

4/30/24

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Reappropriation.

Impact

The bill, upon enactment, provides essential funding that is required to ensure the proper upkeep of the Arkansas School for the Blind and the Arkansas School for the Deaf. Given that these schools serve vulnerable populations, the reappropriation is crucial for delivering quality education and facilities to students. This funding is directed from the Development and Enhancement Fund, emphasizing the state's commitment to special education and infrastructure improvement within these institutions.

Summary

Senate Bill 71 is a legislative measure aimed at the reappropriation of capital improvement funds for two specific educational institutions in Arkansas: the Arkansas School for the Blind and the Arkansas School for the Deaf. The bill seeks to allocate a sum not exceeding $15,000,000 for various projects which include maintenance, renovation, and improvements to the facilities of these schools. The intent is to ensure that these institutions have the necessary resources to maintain and enhance their educational environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB71 is largely positive, with strong support noted from various legislative members who recognize the importance of maintaining educational facilities for students with disabilities. The overwhelming passage of the bill in a recent vote, with 95 votes in favor and only 1 against, reflects a collective agreement on the need for continued investment in such critical educational resources. The general consensus is that the improvements will greatly benefit the student population and enhance their learning experiences.

Contention

While there appear to be no significant points of contention regarding the bill as indicated by its voting history, the discussion around funding priorities may highlight underlying tensions. It remains important for lawmakers to balance funding outlays for education against other state budgetary needs. As this bill focuses specifically on existing appropriations, opposition, if any, might revolve around the allocation process or the prioritization of funds, rather than the need itself.

Latest AR SB71 Activity

View All Events: AR 2024 Regular Session SB71

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB198

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Reappropriation.

AR HB1085

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Deaf And Blind Reappropriation.

AR HB1085

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - ARKANSAS SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF AND BLIND REAPPROPRIATION.

AR SB75

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

AR SB57

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Deaf And Blind Appropriation For The 2026-2027 Fiscal Year.

AR SB57

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - ARKANSAS SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF AND BLIND APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR.

AR HB1810

To Amend Provisions Of The Arkansas Code Concerning The Arkansas School For The Blind And The Arkansas School For The Deaf; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1344

Concerning Administration Of The Arkansas Teacher Retirement System; And To Correct The Name Of The Arkansas School For The Blind And The Arkansas School For The Deaf Under Title 24 Of The Arkansas Code.

AR SB335

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Deaf Capital Improvement Appropriation.

AR SB192

An Act For The Arkansas Public Defender Commission Reappropriation.

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