This bill amends Arkansas law to require private employers to provide unpaid leave to veteran employees on Veterans Day, which is observed annually on November 11. The new section, designated as 11-5-119, defines a "veteran" as a former member of the United States Armed Forces or a member of an Arkansas Reserve or National Guard unit who has been called into active service. To qualify for this unpaid leave, veteran employees must submit written notice at least one month in advance of their intent to take the day off, along with proof of their veteran status, such as a DD Form 214.

Employers are prohibited from rejecting a veteran's request for unpaid leave unless they can demonstrate that the absence would adversely impact public health and safety or cause significant economic or operational disruption, as determined by the Department of Labor and Licensing. The bill also clarifies that employers are not restricted from offering Veterans Day as a paid holiday to all employees, regardless of their veteran status. Additionally, the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Licensing is authorized to promulgate rules to implement this new provision.