reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 3 - ARKANSAS WORKFORCE CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-301 — 6-85-307) › Section 6-85-303 - Funding

(a)
For an academic year, the following shall be used to fund Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarships under this subchapter:
(1)
Excess funding returned to the Office of the Arkansas Lottery under §
6-85-212(d)(2)(B)(i)
from the previous academic year; and
(2)
Net proceeds remaining from the previous academic year after the office:
(A)
Transfers the funds requested by the Division of Higher Education under §
23-115-801(c)(2)
; and
(B)
Deposits the amount necessary to maintain the Scholarship Shortfall Reserve Trust Account under §
23-115-802
in an amount equal to twenty million dollars ($20,000,000).
(b)
(1)
A scholarship under this subchapter shall not be awarded for an academic year if:
(A)
Less than two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) is available under subsection (a) of this section; or
(B)
The division received a loan from the account under §
23-115-802
for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program, §
6-85-201
et seq., for the previous academic year.
(2)
Any funds under subsection (a) of this section that are not disbursed for scholarships under this subchapter shall be carried over to the next academic year to be used for scholarships under this subchapter.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 636,§ 2, eff. 4/12/2021.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 2191, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 2190, eff. 7/1/2019.
Added by Act 2017, No. 613,§ 3, eff. 3/23/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 3 - ARKANSAS WORKFORCE CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-301 — 6-85-307) › Section 6-85-304 - Eligibility

(a)
A student is eligible to receive an Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship for an academic year if the student applies to the Division of Higher Education by a date determined by the Division of Higher Education preceding the academic year and:
(1)
Is an Arkansas resident or, if the student is less than twenty-one (21) years of age, either the student or one (1) parent of the student is an Arkansas resident;
(2)
Meets either of the following requirements:
(A)
Graduated from a:
(i)
Public high school in Arkansas or another state;
(ii)
Private high school in Arkansas or another state; or
(iii)
Home school under §
6-15-501
et seq. or recognized by another state; or
(B)
Received a high school equivalency diploma approved by the Adult Education Section or another state;
(3)
Is not receiving a scholarship under the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program, §
6-85-201
et seq.;
(4)
Is accepted for admission in a program of study at an approved institution of higher education that leads to an associate degree or a certificate program in one (1) of the following high-demand fields:
(A)
Industry;
(B)
Health care; and
(C)
Information technology; and
(5)
(A)
Whose program of study or certificate program will result in the student's being qualified to work in an occupation identified by the Division of Workforce Services under subdivision (a)(5)(B)(i) of this section.
(B)
(i)
The Division of Workforce Services shall provide annually to the Division of Higher Education by March 1 a list that identifies the five (5) most in-demand occupations in this state in each high-demand field under subdivision (a)(4) of this section that require the completion of a program of study that leads to an associate degree or a certificate program.
(ii)
The Division of Workforce Services shall publish on its website the list under subdivision (a)(5)(B)(i) of this section and data supporting the list.
(b)
(1)
A student who received a scholarship under this subchapter and successfully completed a program of study or certificate program that meets the requirements under subdivision (a)(4) of this section is eligible to reapply for a scholarship under this subchapter if the student is accepted for admission in a different program of study or certificate program that meets the requirements under subdivision (a)(4) of this section.
(2)
A student who received a scholarship under this subchapter and does not successfully complete the program of study or certificate program is eligible to reapply for and receive a scholarship one (1) time only.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 169, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 168, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 167, eff. 7/1/2019.
Added by Act 2017, No. 613,§ 3, eff. 3/23/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 3 - ARKANSAS WORKFORCE CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-301 — 6-85-307) › Section 6-85-305 - Distribution - Award amounts

(a)
If funds are available, the Division of Higher Education shall distribute Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarships to all students who meet the requirements under §
6-85-304
.
(b)
(1)
The division shall distribute scholarships from the funds available in an equal amount to every student eligible to receive a scholarship under this subchapter.
(2)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, the maximum scholarship award a student may receive in an academic year shall be the lesser of:
(A)
Eight hundred dollars ($800); or
(B)
(i)
The cost of the certificate program or program of study.
(ii)
The cost of a certificate program or program of study shall include:
(a)
Tuition, fees, or other charges;
(b)
Textbooks or other course materials; and
(c)
Equipment needed for a course.
(3)
The scholarship awards may be used for expenses included in the cost of the certificate program or program of study.
(4)
A scholarship under this section shall be only for the academic year for which it is awarded.
(c)
(1)
If the division has funds remaining after making the distributions under subsection (b) of this section, the division shall distribute scholarships to students for the summer term of the academic year.
(2)
If funds are available under subdivision (c)(1) of this section, a student shall apply for a scholarship for a summer term by a date determined by the division preceding the summer term.
(3)
(A)
The division shall distribute scholarships for a summer term in the same manner as under subsection (b) of this section.
(B)
Scholarships for a summer term may be used in the same manner as under subsection (b) of this section.
(4)
A student who received a scholarship under subsection (b) of this section may also receive a scholarship for a summer term.
(d)
The division shall disburse scholarship awards on behalf of an eligible student directly to the approved institution of higher education.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 2192, eff. 7/1/2019.
Added by Act 2017, No. 613,§ 3, eff. 3/23/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 3 - ARKANSAS WORKFORCE CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-301 — 6-85-307) › Section 6-85-306 - Agreements between institutions

An approved institution of higher education may enter into agreements with other institutions of higher education, including without limitation technical institutes, to allow students enrolled in the approved institution of higher education under this subchapter to take courses at the other institutions of higher education.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 692,§ 15, eff. 7/24/2019.
Added by Act 2017, No. 613,§ 3, eff. 3/23/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 3 - ARKANSAS WORKFORCE CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-301 — 6-85-307) › Section 6-85-307 - Rules

The Division of Higher Education shall promulgate rules to implement this subchapter.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 2193, eff. 7/1/2019.
Added by Act 2017, No. 613,§ 3, eff. 3/23/2017.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 4 - ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-401 — 6-85-406) › Section 6-85-401 - Creation

There is created the Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship Program.
Added by Act 2019, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 4 - ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-401 — 6-85-406) › Section 6-85-402 - Definitions

As used in this subchapter:
(1)
"Approved institution of higher education" means an institution of higher education that:
(A)
Is approved by the Division of Higher Education to participate in the Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship Program;
(B)
Offers at least a fifty-percent discount on the tuition and mandatory fees of an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program to a student who is enrolled in an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program, unless other opportunities are provided that lower the tuition and mandatory fees below fifty percent (50%); and
(C)
Is a:
(i)
State-supported two-year or four-year college or university; or
(ii)
Private, nonprofit two-year or four-year college or university that has its primary headquarters located in Arkansas and that is eligible to receive Title IV federal student aid funds;
(2)
(A)
"Certificate program" means a program that is offered or made available to a student by an approved institution of higher education that leads to the obtainment of a certification or license.
(B)
"Certificate program" does not include a program that is operated or sponsored by a third party;
(3)
(A)
"Endorsed concurrent enrollment course" means the same as defined in §
6-16-1202
.
(B)
"Endorsed concurrent enrollment course" does not include a program that is operated or sponsored by a third party; and
(4)
"Student" means a person in grade ten (10), grade eleven (11), or grade twelve (12) who is enrolled at a:
(A)
Public high school in Arkansas;
(B)
Private high school in Arkansas; or
(C)
Home school, as defined in §
6-15-501
.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 438,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Added by Act 2019, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 4 - ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-401 — 6-85-406) › Section 6-85-403 - Eligibility

(a)
A student is eligible to receive an Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship under this subchapter for an academic semester or academic year during which the student is enrolled in an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program if the student:
(1)
Is an Arkansas resident or, if the student is less than twenty-one (21) years of age, either the student or one (1) parent of the student is an Arkansas resident; and
(2)
(A)
Submits a student success plan as described under §
6-15-2911(b)
.
(B)
The student success plan required under subdivision (a)(2)(A) of this section for a student who is enrolled in an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program shall:
(i)
Be prepared in consultation with:
(a)
School personnel, the student, and the student's parent or legal guardian; or
(b)
A college advisor; and
(ii)
Include:
(a)
An endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program that is relevant to the student's success plan; and
(b)
Measures that ensure the successful completion of the endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program in which the student is enrolled.
(b)
(1)
A student successfully completes an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or a course taken towards the completion of a certificate program under this subchapter if he or she completes the course or program and receives a minimum grade point average of 2.5.
(2)
(A)
A student who fails to successfully complete an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or a course taken towards the completion of a certificate program under this subchapter shall:
(i)
Retain eligibility for a scholarship under this subchapter; and
(ii)
Enroll in no more than one (1) endorsed concurrent enrollment course or course required for the completion of a certificate program for the first semester following the semester in which the student failed to successfully complete an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or course taken towards the completion of a certificate program.
(B)
However, if a student fails an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or a course taken towards the completion of a certificate program under this subchapter a second time, the student shall be ineligible to reapply for a scholarship under this subchapter.
(c)
A student whose enrollment in a vocational center is reimbursable under §
6-51-305
is not eligible for a scholarship under this subchapter.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 82,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Added by Act 2019, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 4 - ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-401 — 6-85-406) › Section 6-85-404 - Funding

(a)
For an academic year, Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarships under this subchapter shall be funded with any funds remaining after the Division of Higher Education allocates sufficient funding to award Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarships under §
6-85-301
et seq., at a level equivalent to the awards made in the previous academic year.
(b)
(1)
A scholarship under this subchapter shall not be awarded for an academic year if:
(A)
Less than two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) is available under subsection (a) of this section; or
(B)
The division received a loan from the Scholarship Shortfall Reserve Trust Account under §
23-115-802
for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program, §
6-85-201
et seq., for the previous academic year.
(2)
Any funds under subsection (a) of this section that are not disbursed for scholarships under this subchapter shall be carried over to the next academic year to be used for scholarships under this subchapter.
Added by Act 2019, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 4 - ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-401 — 6-85-406) › Section 6-85-405 - Distribution - Award amounts

(a)
If funds are available, the Division of Higher Education shall award Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarships to all students who meet the requirements under this subchapter.
(b)
(1)
The division shall distribute scholarships from the funds available in an equal amount to every approved institution of higher education that has enrolled a student eligible to receive a scholarship under this subchapter.
(2)
The maximum scholarship award a student may receive in an academic year shall be the lesser of:
(A)
(i)
Five hundred dollars ($500).
(ii)
A scholarship awarded to a student who is eligible under §
6-85-403
shall be awarded in the amount of one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125) for each endorsed concurrent enrollment credit course or certificate program in which the eligible student is enrolled, up to two (2) endorsed concurrent enrollment credit courses or certificate programs per semester; or
(B)
The tuition and mandatory fees of the endorsed concurrent credit course or certificate program.
(3)
A scholarship granted under this section may be awarded in addition to any funds received for the enrollment in an endorsed concurrent enrollment course under §
6-16-1204(e)(3)
.
(4)
Unless a student's high school or community-based program provides financial assistance for the cost of tuition and mandatory fees for an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program, the remaining cost of tuition and mandatory fees for an endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program is the responsibility of the eligible student who is enrolled in the endorsed concurrent enrollment course or certificate program.
Added by Act 2019, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 4 - ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-401 — 6-85-406) › Section 6-85-406 - Rules

The Division of Higher Education shall promulgate rules to implement this subchapter.
Added by Act 2019, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 5 - PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CREATING OR AMENDING LOTTERY-FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS (§§ 6-85-501 — 6-85-503) › Section 6-85-501 - Introduction of bills

(a)
The following proposed legislation to be considered by the General Assembly at a regular session shall be introduced in the General Assembly during the first thirty-one (31) calendar days of a regular session:
(1)
A bill that creates a new scholarship to be funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable; and
(2)
A bill that affects an existing scholarship that is funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable.
(b)
(1)
A bill creating a new scholarship to be funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, or affecting an existing scholarship that is funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, shall not be introduced after the thirty-first day of a regular session unless its introduction is first approved by a three-fourths vote of the full membership of each chamber of the General Assembly.
(2)
If the General Assembly recesses for longer than three (3) consecutive days during the first thirty-one (31) days of a regular session, the deadline imposed under this section shall be extended for a time period equal to the recess.
(c)
A bill creating a new scholarship to be funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, or affecting an existing scholarship that is funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, shall not be introduced or considered at a special session or fiscal session of the General Assembly unless the introduction or consideration of the bill is first approved by a two-thirds vote of the full membership of each chamber of the General Assembly.
Added by Act 2021, No. 636,§ 3, eff. 4/12/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Subchapter 5 - PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CREATING OR AMENDING LOTTERY-FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS (§§ 6-85-501 — 6-85-503) › Section 6-85-503 - Consideration of bills

(a)
The House Committee on Education and the Senate Committee on Education shall meet jointly during a regular session, extraordinary session, or fiscal session, as applicable, to consider any bill:
(1)
Creating a new scholarship to be funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable; or
(2)
Affecting an existing scholarship that is funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable.
(b)
A bill creating a new scholarship to be funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, or affecting an existing scholarship that is funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, shall not be recommended to either chamber of the General Assembly except upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the following, meeting jointly during a regular session, extraordinary session, or fiscal session, as applicable:
(1)
House Committee on Education; and
(2)
Senate Committee on Education.
(c)
A lottery fiscal impact statement prepared for a bill as required under §
6-85-502
shall be amended each time the House Committee on Education and the Senate Committee on Education recommend to either chamber of the General Assembly a bill creating a new scholarship to be funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, or affecting an existing scholarship that is funded with net proceeds from the state lottery or the Higher Education Grants Fund Account, as applicable, in order to account for the updated lottery fiscal impact, if any, the bill that proposes a new scholarship or amends an existing scholarship will have.
Added by Act 2021, No. 636,§ 3, eff. 4/12/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Section 6-85-601 - Creation

There is created and established the Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship Program.
Added by Act 2023, No. 386,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Section 6-85-602 - Eligibility

A student is eligible to receive an Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship under this subchapter for an academic semester or academic year if the student:
(1)
Applies for and maintains eligibility for a scholarship under the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program; and
(2)
Demonstrates financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Added by Act 2023, No. 386,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Section 6-85-603 - Award of scholarship

(a)
An Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship under this subchapter shall be awarded to eligible applicants:
(1)
In addition to a scholarship awarded under the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program;
(2)
Based on the amount of financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
(3)
As determined by the Division of Higher Education if sufficient funds are available; and
(4)
(A)
In increments of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per eligible student per academic year, with a maximum of four thousand dollars ($4,000) per eligible student per academic year, as determined by the division.
(B)
The sum of an Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship under this subchapter and an Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship shall not exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000) total per eligible student per academic year.
(C)
Scholarship amounts awarded under this subchapter may vary each year depending on the amount of funding available.
(b)
(1)
Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarships under this subchapter shall be funded by available net proceeds remaining from the previous academic year after the Office of the Arkansas Lottery:
(A)
Transfers the funds requested by the division under §
23-115-801(c)(2)
; and
(B)
Deposits the amount necessary to maintain the Scholarship Shortfall Reserve Trust Account under §
23-115-802
in an amount equal to twenty million dollars ($20,000,000).
(2)
However, an Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship under this subchapter shall not be awarded for an academic year if:
(A)
Less than two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) is available under subdivision (b)(1)(A) of this section; or
(B)
The division received a loan from the account under §
23-115-802
for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Program for the previous academic year.
(3)
The total amount of scholarships awarded under this subchapter shall not exceed twenty-five million dollars ($25,000,000) for academic year 2023-2024.
Added by Act 2023, No. 386,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 6 - POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (§§ 6-80-101 — 6-85-604) › Chapter 85 - ARKANSAS ACADEMIC CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (§§ 6-85-101 — 6-85-604) › Section 6-85-604 - Authority

(a)
The Division of Higher Education shall administer the Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship Program under this subchapter.
(b)
The division may promulgate rules to administer the program under this subchapter.
Added by Act 2023, No. 386,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 7 - EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION (§§ 6-87-101 — 6-87-104) › Chapter 87 - UNIFIED EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION SYSTEM. (§§ 6-87-101 — 6-87-104) › Section 6-87-102 - Unified Early Childhood Care and Education System stakeholder engagement

(a)
By no later than October 1, 2024, and before the transfer of the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Education by a cabinet-level department transfer under §
25-43-502
, the Secretary of the Department of Education shall engage with early childhood stakeholders to advise the Office of Early Childhood, including without limitation on:
(1)
Provision of recommendations on the efficient, effective transition of functions and funds between agencies; and
(2)
Identification of opportunities to maximize the impact of the Unified Early Childhood Care and Education System for families, providers, and the economy.
(b)
Stakeholders shall include without limitation the following:
(1)
Childcare providers, which may include without limitation:
(A)
Head Start programs;
(B)
Private childcare providers; and
(C)
School-based prekindergarten providers;
(2)
Families with children receiving early care and education services;
(3)
Experts in early childhood care and education;
(4)
Experts in early literacy and early numeracy;
(5)
Business and industry representation;
(6)
Leadership from the Department of Education and the Department of Human Services; and
(7)
Relevant advocacy organizations.
Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 58, eff. 7/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 7 - EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION (§§ 6-87-101 — 6-87-104) › Chapter 87 - UNIFIED EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION SYSTEM. (§§ 6-87-101 — 6-87-104) › Section 6-87-103 - Academic approval

(a)
By no later than January 1, 2024, each early learning center approved for licensure by the Department of Education and receiving public funds under this chapter shall:
(1)
Meet all health and safety standards previously required by the Department of Human Services; and
(2)
(A)
Obtain approval from the Department of Education for adherence to the requirements of the Unified Early Childhood Care and Education System established under this chapter regarding kindergarten readiness as determined by the State Board of Education.
(B)
The Department of Education shall base its approval under subdivision (a)(2)(A) of this section on an early learning center's satisfactory participation in the Unified Early Childhood Care and Education System, including without limitation unified accountability and coordinated enrollment, as determined by the state board.
(b)
The state board shall:
(1)
Conduct a comprehensive review of all state standards and rules for all licenses at least every five (5) years; and
(2)
Provide a public process through which early learning centers may submit specific rules that early educators want reviewed or changed.
Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 58, eff. 7/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-102 - Work time to be scheduled for voting - Penalty

Each employer in the state shall schedule the work hours of employees on election days so that each employee will have an opportunity to exercise the right of franchise. Any employer who fails or refuses to comply with the provisions of this section shall upon conviction be subject to a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250).
Acts 1989, No. 545, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-105 - Majority of qualified electors

Whenever any law of this state shall require that a proposition or question shall be adopted by a majority of the qualified electors of this state, of a city, or of a county based on the total number of electors of the state, city, or county, appearing on the certified list of all qualified electors thereof, the majority required for the adoption of the proposition or question hereafter shall be deemed to be the majority of the qualified electors of the state, city, or county voting on the proposition or question at the election.
Acts 1969, No. 465, Art. 13, § 3; A.S.A. 1947, § 3-1303; Acts 1997, No. 445, § 4.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-106 - Election laws expert

The Secretary of State shall designate at least one (1) member of his or her staff to become knowledgeable of the election laws as they pertain to elections in the State of Arkansas for the purpose of answering procedural questions concerning elections and to aid the candidates and their agents in filing for election.
Acts 1977, No. 312, § 8; A.S.A. 1947, § 3-1314.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-108 - Election law deadlines

If an election law deadline occurs on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the deadline shall be the next day which is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday.
Acts 1999, No. 653, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-109 - Enforcement of election laws

(a)
Following a written complaint concerning any election law violation or irregularity to the county board of election commissioners, the written complaint shall be sent by the county board of election commissioners to the State Board of Election Commissioners and the Election Integrity Unit for evaluation and investigation.
(b)
A complaint submitted under subsection (a) of this section shall be included by the unit in the Arkansas Election Integrity Database.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 544,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 952,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Acts 2003, No. 270, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-110 - Voting information on internet website

The Secretary of State shall provide on his or her internet website a mechanism to allow a person to enter his or her home address and retrieve information concerning the person's polling location, precinct, state representative, and state senator.
Acts 2003, No. 1167, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-111 - Use of public funds to support or oppose ballot measure - Definitions

(a)
As used in this section:
(1)
"Governmental body" means the same as defined in §
21-8-402
;
(2)
"Public funds" means funds, moneys, receivables, grants, investments, instruments, real or personal property, or other assets, liabilities, equities, revenues, receipts, or disbursements belonging to, held by, or passed through a governmental body; and
(3)
(A)
Except as provided in subdivision (a)(3)(B) of this section, "public servant" means an individual who is:
(i)
Employed by a governmental body;
(ii)
Appointed to serve a governmental body; or
(iii)
Appointed to a governmental body.
(B)
"Public servant" does not include:
(i)
An elected official; or
(ii)
A person appointed to an elective office.
(b)
It is unlawful for a public servant or a governmental body to expend or permit the expenditure of public funds to support or oppose a ballot measure.
(c)
This section does not:
(1)
Limit the freedom of speech of a public servant or government body, including without limitation verbal expressions of views supporting or opposing a ballot measure;
(2)
Prohibit a governmental body from expressing an opinion on a ballot measure through the passage of a resolution or proclamation;
(3)
Prohibit the incidental use of state resources by a public servant, including without limitation travel costs, when speaking at an event in which a ballot measure is discussed if the subject matter of the speaking engagement is within the scope of the official duties and responsibilities of the public servant; or
(4)
Prohibit the dissemination of public information at a speaking engagement and the incidental use of state resources in the analysis and preparation of that public information if the subject matter of the public information is within the scope of the official duties and responsibilities of the public servant.
(d)
(1)
Except as provided under subdivision (d)(2) of this section, a violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor.
(2)
(A)
A public servant who is found guilty or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a violation under this section is ineligible to hold any office, employment, or appointment in a governmental body.
(B)
If a public servant is found guilty or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a violation under this section while employed by a governmental body, he or she shall be removed from employment immediately.
Added by Act 2013, No. 312,§ 2, eff. 8/16/2013.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-112 - Destruction of a ballot or ballot materials - Prohibited - Definitions

(a)
A person shall not knowingly destroy a ballot or ballot-related material required to be preserved by law until after:
(1)
Two (2) years after the certification of the results of the election; and
(2)
The county board of election commissioners has entered an order, created a record to be maintained, and filed the order for destruction of the ballot or ballot-related material.
(b)
(1)
As used in this section, "ballot or ballot-related material" means a ballot or other form that is:
(A)
Provided to a person representing himself or herself as the voter or his or her agent by a county clerk, member of a county board of election commissioners, or poll worker; and
(B)
Returned by the person representing himself or herself as a voter or his or her agent for the purpose of voting in an election.
(2)
"Ballot or ballot-related material" includes without limitation:
(A)
A ballot that has been completed, cast, abandoned, or spoiled;
(B)
A ballot stub or certificate from a ballot that has been completed, cast, abandoned, or spoiled;
(C)
A voter statement that has been submitted to the county clerk;
(D)
An envelope that contains a ballot;
(E)
An affidavit provided to the county clerk;
(F)
An absentee ballot list maintained under §
7-5-416
;
(G)
An absentee ballot application; and
(H)
A list of applications for an absentee ballot under §
7-5-408
.
(c)
A person who is convicted under this section is guilty of an unclassified felony and shall:
(1)
Be sentenced to a term of no less than one (1) year and no more than six (6) years; and
(2)
Pay a fine of up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Added by Act 2013, No. 1261,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-113 - Vote centers

(a)
(1)
The county board of election commissioners may establish one (1) or more vote centers in the county on election day under §
7-5-101
.
(2)
A vote center shall be available to any qualified elector registered to vote in the county who applies to the county board of election commissioners while the polls are open on election day.
(b)
If a vote center is used in an election, the vote center shall have a secure electronic connection to provide voting information to and receive voting information from a computerized registration book maintained by the county clerk.
(c)
Before a person is permitted to cast a vote at a vote center, the election official shall:
(1)
Request that the voter identify himself or herself by stating his or her name, date of birth, and address in order to verify his or her registration and provide identification as required by law;
(2)
Request that the voter provide identification as required by law;
(3)
If the voter's name or address is not the same as that in the county voter registration record files, request that the voter complete an updated voter registration application form; and
(4)
(A)
Request that the voter sign a voting roster or voting request form that identifies his or her name, address, date of birth, and the date on the roster or form.
(B)
The voting roster or voting request form shall contain the written or printed precinct number or ballot style of the voter.
(d)
If the voter is not listed in the electronic county voter registration files, the election official is unable to verify the voter's registration, and the voter contends that he or she is eligible to vote, the voter shall be directed to his or her polling site for the voter's precinct to cast a ballot.
(e)
The county board of election commissioners shall furnish a vote center location that adequately allows the voter to personally and secretly execute his or her vote.
(f)
The Secretary of State shall promulgate rules for the vote centers that:
(1)
Designate the electronic equipment to be used to verify the registration record of a voter;
(2)
Establish standards for the maintenance and use of the equipment used at a vote center;
(3)
Establish standards for the testing and backup of the equipment used at a vote center;
(4)
Establish standards for a secure electronic connection between a vote center and a county's computerized registration book; and
(5)
Establish procedures for the conduct of the vote center in the event that the electronic system fails.
Amended by Act 2015, No. 1042,§ 2, eff. 7/22/2015.
Added by Act 2013, No. 1389,§ 2, eff. 8/16/2013.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-114 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Act 2023, No. 456,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Added by Act 2015, No. 1280,§ 2, eff. 4/8/2015.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-1-115) › Section 7-1-115 - Legislative review of new federal election guidance - Purpose - Definition

(a)
The purpose of this section is to ensure that the General Assembly has the opportunity to:
(1)
Be informed of new federal election guidance; and
(2)
Research the interaction between the new federal election guidance and state law.
(b)
As used in this section, "new federal election guidance" means any federal directive, guidance, written communication, or verbal communication pertaining to elections, including without limitation:
(1)
Time, place, and manner suggestions for carrying out an election in the state;
(2)
A potential violation of federal election law; and
(3)
Guidance issued by the United States Department of Justice or any other federal executive agency related to new or existing voting or election laws.
(c)
All state and county election officials shall submit all new federal election guidance to the office of the Secretary of State within two (2) business days of receipt of the new federal election guidance.
(d)
The office of the Secretary of State shall:
(1)
Be the custodian of all new federal election guidance concerning an election conducted in the state;
(2)
Prepare a report of all new federal election guidance to be submitted to the Joint Performance Review Committee by September 1 of each year; and
(3)
(A)
Compile from the following persons or entities all new federal election guidance concerning elections in the state given by the United States Department of Justice or any other federal executive agency:
(i)
County boards of election commissioners;
(ii)
County election officials;
(iii)
The State Board of Election Commissioners; and
(iv)
Employees of the Secretary of State's office.
(B)
Information required under subdivision (d)(3)(A) of this section shall include new federal election guidance concerning elections transmitted through:
(i)
Telephonic or electronic means;
(ii)
The mail; or
(iii)
In-person contact.
Added by Act 2023, No. 294,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 2 - CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS (§§ 7-2-101 — 7-2-105) › Section 7-2-101 - Number of congressional districts

The State of Arkansas is hereby divided into four (4) congressional districts, provided that the members of the United States House of Representatives presently serving from each of the existing congressional districts of this state shall continue to serve until the expiration of their current terms, and successor congressmen shall be elected from the congressional districts as established in this subchapter. It is the intention of this subchapter to provide for congressional districts of substantially equal population in order to comply with the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.
Acts 1991, No. 1220, § 1; 2001, No. 1840, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 2 - CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS (§§ 7-2-101 — 7-2-105) › Section 7-2-102 - First Congressional District

(a)
The First Congressional District shall be composed of:
(1)
The counties of Arkansas, Baxter, Boone, Chicot, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Desha, Fulton, Greene, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Lee, Lincoln, Lonoke, Marion, Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett, Prairie, Randolph, St. Francis, Searcy, Sharp, Stone, and Woodruff; and
(2)
The following voting precincts of Pulaski County as they existed on January 1, 2021:
(A)
047;
(B)
054; and
(C)
055.
(b)
The qualified electors residing in the counties and portions of Pulaski County listed under subsection (a) of this section shall elect one (1) member of the United States House of Representatives.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1116,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1114,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Acts 1991, No. 1220, § 2; 2001, No. 1840, § 2; 2011, No. 1241, § 1; 2011, No. 1242, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 2 - CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS (§§ 7-2-101 — 7-2-105) › Section 7-2-103 - Second Congressional District

(a)
The Second Congressional District shall be composed of:
(1)
The counties of Cleburne, Conway, Faulkner, Perry, Saline, Van Buren, and White; and
(2)
The voting precincts of Pulaski County as they existed on January 1, 2021, that are not listed under §
7-2-102(a)(2)
or §
7-2-105(a)(2)
.
(b)
The qualified electors residing in the counties and portions of Pulaski County listed under subsection (a) of this section shall elect one (1) member of the United States House of Representatives.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1116,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1114,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Acts 1991, No. 1220, § 3; 2001, No. 1840, § 3; 2011, No. 1241, § 1; 2011, No. 1242, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 2 - CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS (§§ 7-2-101 — 7-2-105) › Section 7-2-104 - Third Congressional District

(a)
The Third Congressional District shall be composed of:
(1)
The counties of Benton, Carroll, Crawford, Madison, and Washington; and
(2)
The voting precincts of Sebastian County as they existed on January 1, 2021, that are not listed under §
7-2-105(a)(3)
.
(b)
The qualified electors residing in the counties and portions of Sebastian County listed under subsection (a) of this section shall elect one (1) member of the United States House of Representatives.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1116,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1114,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Acts 1991, No. 1220, § 4; 2001, No. 1840, § 4; 2011, No. 1241, § 1; 2011, No. 1242, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 7 - ELECTIONS (§§ 7-1-101 — 7-11-303) › Chapter 2 - CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS (§§ 7-2-101 — 7-2-105) › Section 7-2-105 - Fourth Congressional District

(a)
The Fourth Congressional District shall be composed of:
(1)
The counties of Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Clark, Cleveland, Columbia, Dallas, Drew, Franklin, Garland, Grant, Hempstead, Hot Spring, Howard, Jefferson, Johnson, Lafayette, Little River, Logan, Miller, Montgomery, Nevada, Newton, Ouachita, Pike, Polk, Pope, Scott, Sevier, Union, and Yell;
(2)
The following voting precincts of Pulaski County as they existed on January 1, 2021:
(A)
103;
(B)
104;
(C)
105;
(D)
124;
(E)
125;
(F)
126;
(G)
127;
(H)
131;
(I)
132;
(J)
133; and
(K)
135; and
(3)
The following voting precincts of Sebastian County as they existed on January 1, 2021:
(A)
9-2K;
(B)
9-2L;
(C)
9-3A;
(D)
9-3B;
(E)
9-3C;
(F)
9-3D;
(G)
9-3E;
(H)
9-3F;
(I)
9-3G;
(J)
9-3H;
(K)
9-3I;
(L)
9-3J;
(M)
9-3K;
(N)
9-3L;
(O)
9-3M;
(P)
9-3N;
(Q)
9-3O;
(R)
9-3P; and
(S)
9-4F.
(b)
The qualified electors residing in the counties and portions of Pulaski County and Sebastian County listed under subsection (a) of this section shall elect one (1) member of the United States House of Representatives.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1116,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 1114,§ 1, eff. 10/13/2021.
Acts 1991, No. 1220, § 5; 2001, No. 1840, § 5; 2011, No. 1241, § 1; 2011, No. 1242, § 1.