The proposed bill aims to authorize public schools in Arkansas to adopt policies for the inclusion of one or more school chaplains. It introduces a new section to the Arkansas Code, specifically 6-17-311, which outlines the roles and responsibilities of school chaplains. These chaplains are intended to provide support, services, and programs for students, staff, and parents, with specific requirements for parental consent before a student can participate in any chaplain-led activities. The bill mandates that schools inform parents about the availability of these services and publish a list of chaplains, including their religious affiliations, on the school's website.

Additionally, the bill establishes protocols for ensuring the safety of students by requiring background checks for school chaplains. This includes a statewide and nationwide criminal records check and a Child Maltreatment Central Registry check, which must be funded by the public school. The legislation explicitly prohibits the employment or volunteer acceptance of any chaplain who is a registered sex offender. Overall, the bill seeks to formalize the role of chaplains in public schools while ensuring the safety and informed consent of students and their families.