The proposed bill aims to prohibit the possession of tobacco, tobacco products, and e-cigarettes on public school property, including open-enrollment public charter schools. It amends Arkansas Code 6-21-609(b) to clarify that not only smoking but also using or possessing these substances is prohibited in and on school property, including school buses.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new subsection (e) that holds the parent or legal guardian of a student accountable if the student is found using or possessing tobacco or e-cigarettes at school. The fines for violations are structured as follows: $100 for the first offense, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for any subsequent offenses. The collected fines will be directed to the local police department of the municipality where the school is located.
Statutes affected: Old version HB1192 V2 - 2-27-2025 11:02 AM: 6-21-609(b), 6-21-609
Old version HB1192 Original - 1-22-2025 10:50 AM: 6-21-609(b), 6-21-609
HB 1192: 6-21-609(b), 6-21-609