The Arkansas Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower (RISE) Act aims to enhance support for students with disabilities in higher education institutions across Arkansas. The bill introduces a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 60, specifically addressing the needs and rights of students with disabilities. It defines key terms such as "institution of higher education," "plain language," and "student with a disability," aligning these definitions with existing federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The act mandates that institutions adopt transparent policies for evaluating disability status, disseminate information in accessible formats, and engage in an interactive process to establish reasonable accommodations for students.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for higher education institutions, including advising students on the accommodation request process, ensuring that previously provided proof of permanent disability is honored without reevaluation, and establishing protocols for addressing concerns about accommodations that may alter course requirements. The provisions of the RISE Act are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity and support for students with disabilities in Arkansas's higher education landscape.