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AR HB1031

Bill

Status

Failed

5/5/2025

Primary Sponsor

Denise Garner

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

95th General Assembly (2025 Regular)

AI Summary

  • Public schools must offer evidence-based health courses to students in grades 7-12 beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, covering mental health, substance abuse, diet/obesity, tobacco use, and teenage pregnancy prevention

  • Mental health curriculum must include suicide prevention methods and recognition of mental health crises

  • Substance abuse education must address prescription drugs, illicit drugs, alcohol, and other substances commonly abused during adolescence, along with consequences and prevention methods

  • Parents may submit written requests to excuse their children from the teenage pregnancy prevention portion, which covers abstinence, contraception, STI prevention, consent, and healthy relationships

  • The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education must develop evidence-based resources in consultation with UAMS and the Department of Health, and provide professional development for teachers implementing the curriculum

Legislative Description

To Create The Arkansas Healthy Lifestyle Education Act Of 2025; And To Ensure The Health Curriculum In Arkansas Public Schools Addresses Certain Health Issues Facing Students.

Last Action

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

5/5/2025

Committee Referrals

Education1/13/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available