The Public School Access and Transparency Act aims to enhance public access to learning materials used in Arkansas public schools while amending the Freedom of Information Act of 1967. The bill introduces new definitions for "public records" and "learning materials," ensuring that all learning materials maintained by public schools are considered public records. It explicitly states that access to these materials cannot be denied on the grounds of copyright infringement and prohibits custodians from entering agreements that restrict public access based on intellectual property rights.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which residents can access learning materials, including digital resources, without being required to sign nondisclosure agreements. It emphasizes that any copies made must adhere to fair use provisions and allows for physical inspection of digital materials when copying is impractical. The act also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the legislation is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB572 V2 - 4-1-2025 05:40 PM: 25-19-103(7), 25-19-103, 25-19-105
Old version SB572 Original - 3-28-2025 11:10 AM: 25-19-103(7), 25-19-103, 25-19-105
SB 572: 25-19-103(7), 25-19-103, 25-19-105
Act 649: 25-19-103(7), 25-19-103, 25-19-105