This bill amends existing laws regarding the permissible uses of real estate donated by public school districts in Arkansas. It allows school districts to donate real property to open-enrollment public charter schools, publicly supported institutions of higher education, technical institutes, community colleges, and various local government entities for specific educational purposes. The bill stipulates that donated properties must be used exclusively for community programs, educational services, social enrichment programs, or after-school programs, explicitly excluding housing or similar benefits. Additionally, it requires that if real property is not utilized by a consolidated school district within two years, it must be made available for donation or low-cost long-term lease to the aforementioned entities.

Furthermore, the bill updates definitions and reporting requirements under the Arkansas Public School Academic Facilities Program Act. It clarifies the definitions of "public school facility" and "unused or underutilized public school facility," and modifies the reporting timeline for school districts to submit information about such facilities. The bill also establishes a right of first refusal for open-enrollment public charter schools regarding the purchase or lease of unused or underutilized public school facilities, ensuring they are prioritized in any transactions involving these properties. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the educational use of surplus school properties while providing clear guidelines for their management and transfer.

Statutes affected:
SB 215: 6-21-108(b), 6-21-803(13), 6-21-803(17), 6-21-806(a), 6-21-815(c), 6-21-816(a), 6-21-816(b), 6-21-816(h)