This bill amends the Tobacco Settlement Proceeds Act to establish a grant program for school-based health centers, specifically targeting minority-majority school districts. The Arkansas Minority Health Commission is directed to administer this program, which will receive an annual allocation of $500,000 from the existing Targeted State Needs Program Account. The bill also outlines that the distribution of funds will align with the Arkansas School-Based Health Center Grant Program, ensuring that the rules and administration of the new program are consistent with existing frameworks.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Arkansas Minority Health Commission adopt initial rules for the grant program by January 1, 2026, or as soon as practicable after necessary approvals are obtained. The commission is required to file these proposed rules with the Legislative Council in advance to allow for consideration before the deadline. This legislative action aims to enhance health services in schools serving predominantly minority populations, thereby addressing health disparities in these communities.

Statutes affected:
HB 1723: 19-12-110(c), 19-12-114