AR HB1952

Repeals existing provisions in Arkansas Code § 6-17-422(h)(3)(D)–(i) regarding Professional Licensure Standards Board authority over educator ethics complaints.

Creates new Arkansas Code § 6-17-427 establishing a comprehensive ethics enforcement process for educators holding valid Arkansas teacher's or administrator's licenses.

Establishes an ethics subcommittee of the Professional Licensure Standards Board with equal representation of teachers and administrators to receive, investigate, and enforce ethics complaints filed by the Department of Education, school districts, or superintendents.

Requires the ethics subcommittee to complete investigations and take action within 150 days (or 180 days if a hearing is conducted) and allows educators to respond in writing within 30 days and request evidentiary hearings.

Makes ethics subcommittee proceedings confidential except for public hearings before the State Board of Education on enforcement recommendations, with all related records subject to public disclosure during State Board hearings under the Freedom of Information Act.