The proposed bill, known as the Arkansas Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower (RISE) Act, aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding higher education for students with disabilities in Arkansas. It introduces a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 60, specifically addressing the needs and rights of these students. Key provisions include the requirement for institutions of higher education to adopt clear policies for evaluating disability status, the documentation needed for accommodations, and the establishment of reasonable accommodations through an interactive process. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and accessibility in disseminating information regarding disability resources and accommodations to students, parents, and faculty.

Additionally, the bill mandates that institutions provide guidance to students who self-identify as having disabilities, ensuring they are informed about the accommodation request process. It also stipulates that students should not be required to undergo reevaluation for a permanent disability if they have previously provided proof. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students with disabilities in Arkansas's higher education system.