AR SB4

Amends Arkansas Code § 20-22-1011(a) to remove the requirement that all doors and exits remain unlocked during school hours, resolving conflict with § 6-21-121 requiring exterior school doors to be closed and locked.

Eliminates language requiring the State Fire Marshal to keep all doors and exits unlocked during school hours, while maintaining the requirement for one fire drill per month.

Declares an emergency based on findings that current law is inconsistent and unclear regarding exterior school door locking procedures, which impacts school safety and student/teacher protection.

Establishes effective date as the date of gubernatorial approval, the expiration of the Governor's veto period if no action is taken, or the date the last house overrides a veto.

Approved by the Governor on September 14, 2023.