AR HB1024

Amends Arkansas Code § 6-17-306(a) to entitle school personnel (teachers, administrators, noncertified staff) to 15 days plus necessary travel time annually for military training or civil defense/public health training, with unused leave accumulating up to 15 days per fiscal year.

Modifies Arkansas Code § 12-62-413 to broaden employment protections for individuals called to active state duty as members of armed forces or militia, ensuring they receive the same employment and reemployment rights as those called to federal active duty and prohibiting discrimination in hiring, retention, promotion, or employment benefits.

Revises Arkansas Code § 21-4-212 to expand military leave provisions for state and political subdivision employees who are National Guard or reserve members, granting 15 days annually plus travel time, with accumulation up to a maximum of 30 days and allowing employees drafted or called to active duty to be reinstated within 90 days of release.

Specifies that military service periods count as continuous service for retirement benefit calculations without requiring employee contributions to retirement funds, and the state continues contributing to life and disability insurance premiums during military leave if requested.