AR SB262

Repeals Arkansas Code § 6-13-1602, which required the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to publish an annual consolidation list of school districts with fewer than 350 students.

Removes the State Board of Education's authority to require involuntary administrative consolidation of small school districts, allowing consolidation only on a voluntary basis with board approval.

Repeals the requirement that school districts undergoing administrative consolidation must result in a district with average daily membership of at least 350 students.

Maintains Division of Elementary and Secondary Education oversight authority over fiscal and accounting matters for school districts with fewer than 350 students and requires prior approval for debt incurrence by such districts.

Changes the waiver petition deadline for minimum school district size exemptions from 30 days after consolidation list publication to February 1 of each year, and removes the requirement that waivered districts remain on the consolidation list.