To Require Human Growth And Development Instruction In Public Schools.
Summary
HB1946 would require Arkansas public schools serving grades 6-12, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, to provide instruction on human growth and development. The required instruction must include at least a three-minute high-definition ultrasound video showing early fetal development and a computer-generated animation depicting fertilization and the stages of human development in the uterus through birth.
The bill also specifies that this instruction must be included in any class that covers human biology, contraception, or sexually transmitted diseases/infections. It defines “public school” to include both traditional public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools. The measure amends existing school compliance language to reference the new human growth and development requirement alongside other statutory mandates for school districts.
Impact
HB1946 would add a new statewide instructional mandate to Arkansas education law, creating a specific curriculum requirement for grades 6-12 and tying it to courses that address biology, contraception, and STI/STD education. It would affect public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools, and it would also update superintendent assurance requirements under Arkansas Code § 6-15-202 to include compliance with the new human growth and development instruction statute.
Sentiment
The recorded House vote suggests the bill had meaningful support, passing third reading 76-14. However, the later 14-15 roll call motion failed, indicating some continued resistance or procedural disagreement. With no committee transcripts available, the overall sentiment appears generally favorable among a majority of legislators, but not unanimous, and the bill likely drew concern from a minority of members.
Contention
The main point of contention appears to be the bill’s required content and how it would be presented in classrooms. Supporters likely view the ultrasound and fetal-development materials as an educational addition to human biology and sex education, while opponents may object to the mandated inclusion of fetal imagery, the scope of the requirement, or its placement in classes about contraception and STIs. The split vote history indicates disagreement over either the substance of the instruction or the bill’s implementation requirements.