The bill aims to amend Arkansas law to facilitate the placement of a monument on the State Capitol grounds in recognition of the historic integration of Hoxie public schools in 1955. It outlines the significance of Hoxie's role in the desegregation movement, noting that it was the site of the first court battle following the Brown v. Board of Education decision, which led to federal support for integration. The bill expresses the intent to honor the efforts of the Hoxie School Board and community members who stood against segregationist pressures during this transformative period.

To support the establishment of the monument, the bill creates the "Hoxie: The First Stand Memorial Monument Fund," which will consist of gifts, grants, and donations specifically for the monument's erection and maintenance. Additionally, it amends existing laws regarding the Arkansas Capitol Grounds Monument and Memorial Preservation Fund to include this new fund. The Secretary of State is tasked with overseeing the monument's design and placement, ensuring it aligns with other memorials on the Capitol grounds.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1194 Original - 1-22-2025 01:20 PM: 19-5-1125(e)
Old version HB1194 V2 - 1-27-2025 09:01 AM: 19-5-1125(e)
HB 1194: 19-5-1125(e)
Act 251: 19-5-1125(e)