AR SB591

Creates the Arkansas Community Remembrance Commission (13 members appointed by Governor, Speaker of House, President Pro Tempore of Senate, Chair of Arkansas Legislative Black Caucus, and Chair of Legislative Veterans Caucus) with a four-year term limit, dissolving January 1, 2027 unless extended.

Charges the Commission with promoting truth and reconciliation regarding documented extrajudicial, racial, religious, and political injustice and violence (including lynching, discriminatory cleansing, and expulsion) with focus on the period between the end of the Civil War and end of the Korean War.

Requires the Commission to cooperate with organizations to erect historic markers at confirmed incident sites, coordinate public distribution of scholarly research, and assist in developing educational programs and curriculum about these historical injustices.

Creates the Arkansas Truth and Reconciliation Committee (9 members including State Historian, State Librarian, and directors of various cultural and historical organizations) to assist and advise the Commission and recommend policies promoting truth and reconciliation.

Amends school social studies course guidelines to require approval by both the Department of Education and the Arkansas Community Remembrance Commission, and directs development of curriculum materials on Arkansas and the American Civil War emphasizing civilian and military leadership.