AR HB1005

Amends Arkansas Code § 20-22-1011(a) to remove the requirement that all doors and exits remain unlocked during school hours, which conflicted with existing law requiring exterior school doors to be closed and locked.

Resolves inconsistency between fire drill regulations and Arkansas Code § 6-21-121 by eliminating language that mandated keeping school doors and exits unlocked during school hours.

Declares an emergency based on findings that locked exterior school doors are necessary for student and teacher safety and to prevent unwanted entry into school buildings.

Establishes immediate effective date upon Governor approval, expiration of veto period, or veto override by the General Assembly.

Approved by the Governor on September 14, 2023.