The bill amends various provisions of the Arkansas Code related to the Arkansas Better Chance Program and the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success Program. It establishes legislative findings emphasizing the importance of preschool education in preparing children for elementary education and highlights the need for efficiency in utilizing available preschool slots. The bill proposes to combine the two programs to streamline administration and ensure that eligibility criteria for participation are consistent across both programs, as determined by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Key amendments include the establishment of the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success Program within the Arkansas Better Chance Program, allowing for early childhood education for children from birth through five years of age. The bill also mandates that the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education develop programmatic standards and may allocate up to 2% of available funds for program administration. Additionally, it repeals a section that previously outlined criteria for determining need based on family income and age, thereby simplifying the eligibility process for families seeking access to these early childhood programs.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1733 Original - 3-11-2025 10:41 AM: 6-45-104(a)
Old version HB1733 V2 - 3-12-2025 12:17 PM: 6-45-104(a)
Old version HB1733 V3 - 3-31-2025 12:13 PM: 6-45-104(a)
HB 1733: 6-45-104(a)
Act 504: 6-45-104(a)