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 and provisions to ensure that learning materials, which include curricula, lesson plans, and instructional resources, are classified as public records. This classification guarantees that residents can access these materials without the risk of copyright infringement claims being used to deny access. Additionally, the bill prohibits custodians of learning materials from entering agreements that restrict public access based on intellectual property rights.

Key provisions of the bill include the assurance that access to learning materials cannot be denied on copyright grounds, and it establishes that individuals seeking access are not required to sign nondisclosure agreements. The act also emphasizes that digital learning materials must be made available for public inspection, and if copying is impractical, residents should have the opportunity to inspect these materials during normal business hours. Overall, the legislation seeks to promote transparency and accountability in public education by ensuring that learning materials are accessible to the public.

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