Arkansas ACCESS Bill Aims to Reform Education

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has introduced the Arkansas ACCESS bill, a comprehensive reform aiming to improve higher education access and workforce readiness across the state. The bill, supported by Sen. Jonathan Dismang and Rep. Matthew Shepherd, focuses on simplifying the transition to college, expanding scholarships, and increasing access to non-degree credentials. Key initiatives include free college courses for high school students, a unified application process for state colleges, and in-state tuition for military families. The legislation also seeks to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates and enhance accountability in higher education. The bill aims to repurpose existing funds rather than introduce new revenue, with a significant component doubling the initial award for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship. ACCESS is poised to transform Arkansas' education landscape by prioritizing individual student success and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.