The bill amends the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship Program to expand the definition of "approved institution of higher education" to include certain public or private vocational-technical schools and technical institutes. This change allows these institutions to participate in the scholarship program, which aims to support students pursuing education in high-demand fields. Additionally, the bill increases the maximum scholarship award from $800 to $2,500 per academic year, ensuring that students can cover more of their educational expenses, including tuition, fees, and necessary materials.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new eligibility criteria for students, including the requirement to be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and specifies that programs must lead to a portable license or certificate in designated high-demand fields such as construction trades and logistics. It also mandates that institutions receiving funds submit annual reports on graduation rates, job placement statistics, and starting salaries of graduates. An emergency clause is included, emphasizing the immediate need for these changes to address workforce demands and facilitate the use of state lottery proceeds for vocational training scholarships.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1446 V2 - 2-13-2025 10:07 AM: 6-85-302, 02-13-2025, 6-85-304, 6-15-501, 6-85-201, 6-85-305(b), 6-85-307
Old version HB1446 V3 - 2-20-2025 11:40 AM: 6-85-302, 02-20-2025, 6-85-304, 6-15-501, 6-85-201, 6-85-305(b), 6-85-307
Old version HB1446 V4 - 2-25-2025 09:21 AM: 6-85-302, 02-25-2025, 6-85-304, 6-15-501, 6-85-201, 6-85-305(b), 6-85-307
Old version HB1446 Original - 2-11-2025 09:05 AM: 6-85-302, 6-85-304, 6-15-501, 6-85-201, 6-85-305(b), 6-85-307
HB 1446: 6-85-302, 6-85-304, 6-15-501, 6-85-201, 6-85-305(b), 6-85-307