Bill Summary

• Bill Number: HB1005
• Primary Sponsor: Representative Ray
• Co-Sponsors: Senators Hill and J. Dotson
• Purpose: To amend existing laws regarding tuition waivers for Arkansas National Guard soldiers and airmen.

Key Changes Proposed:

• Expands tuition waivers for Arkansas National Guard members to include programs leading to postsecondary certificates or credentials, in addition to undergraduate degrees.

Layman’s Terms Summary:

This bill updates a law that already lets Arkansas National Guard members attend college for free. The change means:

• Now, they can use the free tuition for certificate programs (like training to be a mechanic, an EMT, or a coder), not just for traditional 2- or 4-year college degrees.
• The other rules—like being an Arkansas resident, applying for federal financial aid, and staying in good standing with the Guard—remain the same.

In short, the bill makes it easier for Guard members to access education that fits their career goals, whether it’s a college degree or a job-focused certification.