The bill amends existing laws regarding the use of positive behavioral supports in public school districts in Arkansas. It emphasizes the responsibility of each school district to ensure the safety of students and staff while providing effective, evidence-based behavioral interventions. Key changes include the replacement of the term "positive behavioral support" with "behavioral intervention" in various sections, highlighting a shift towards a broader approach to managing student behavior. The bill also introduces a multi-tiered system of supports, requiring schools to adopt policies that are tailored to the specific needs of their student populations and staff.

Additionally, the bill repeals the definition of "positive behavioral support" and modifies the definition of "punishment" to focus on decreasing inappropriate behavior without the requirement to replace it with appropriate behavior. It mandates that school personnel receive training in behavioral intervention procedures and emphasizes the importance of evaluating and improving these procedures to minimize the use of physical restraint. Overall, the bill aims to create a safer and more supportive educational environment by promoting evidence-based strategies for managing student behavior.

Statutes affected:
HB 1793: 6-18-2401, 6-18-2402(c), 6-18-2403(22), 6-18-2403(24), 6-18-2404, 6-18-2407(3), 6-18-2408(a), 6-18-2409(2)
Act 804: 6-18-2401, 6-18-2402(c), 6-18-2403(22), 6-18-2403(24), 6-18-2404, 6-18-2407(3), 6-18-2408(a), 6-18-2409(2)