AR HB1995

Eliminates the joint holiday combining Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday and Robert E. Lee's Birthday, establishing separate observances on the third Monday in January for Dr. MLK Jr. and a new "Robert E. Lee Day" on the third Monday in February.

Adds Daisy Gatson Bates Day as an official state holiday on the third Monday in January alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday.

Requires the Commissioner of Education to develop educational materials emphasizing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and American civil rights leaders, with instruction specifically tied to corresponding state and federal holidays.

Mandates the Department of Education to develop curriculum materials on Arkansas and the American Civil War before the 2018-2019 school year, focusing on civilian and military leadership and contemporary lessons from that era.

Establishes legislative findings that Arkansas should maintain awareness of its cultural heritage and educate students about historical events, figures, and military leaders connected to the state's history.