The bill amends Arkansas law regarding the Succeed Scholarship Program, specifically focusing on the eligibility and definitions related to students in foster care. It introduces new definitions for "foster care" and "foster parent," clarifying that foster care can be provided by licensed individuals or families, in addition to group homes. The bill also expands the eligibility criteria for students to receive scholarships, allowing those who have achieved permanency through adoption, reunification, or permanent guardianship to qualify. Furthermore, it removes the previous cap of twenty scholarships per academic year for students in foster care, thereby increasing access to these educational resources.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the State Board of Education in administering the Succeed Scholarship Program, including the potential use of a lottery system for scholarship distribution if applications exceed available funds. It also stipulates that scholarships for children of uniformed service members will only be awarded if funds remain after all eligible foster care students have been accommodated. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance educational opportunities for students in foster care and streamline the scholarship application process.

Statutes affected:
HB 1113: 6-41-901, 6-41-902, 6-41-906(a)