HB 2477 updates definitions for Arizona's AZ529 education savings plan to align with federal tax rules. It clarifies that qualified expenses now include computer equipment, software, and apprenticeship program costs (registered under federal law) for beneficiaries. The bill also expands the definition of "member of the family" to include more relatives and specifies limits on education loan repayment withdrawals. This is a procedural revision to the plan's rules, not a new benefit or eligibility change.
SB 1422 extends the Credit Enhancement Eligibility Board, which helps Arizona public schools secure more favorable financing terms, until July 1, 2036. The bill sets a clear timeline for the board's termination and the eventual repeal of related statutes (Title 41, Chapter 56, Articles 10 and 11), requiring all program funding obligations and guaranteed financings to be settled by January 1, 2037, before repeal. If obligations remain unresolved, the statutes will be repealed 30 days after settlement. The bill applies retroactively to July 1, 2026, to maintain continuity in the program.
HB 4043 requires Arizona public schools serving grades 9-12 to provide automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at all campuses and school-sponsored athletic events starting August 1, 2026. It also mandates that by August 1, 2027, each school must ensure at least one staff member completes annual training in CPR, first aid, and AED use. The bill specifies AEDs must be in unlocked, clearly marked, accessible locations that follow national emergency care guidelines and be maintained per manufacturer instructions. Schools may accept donations to fund AED purchases and maintenance, and the law defines "school-sponsored athletic event" to include practices, trainings, and competitions.
This proposed constitutional amendment (HCR 2044) would prohibit Arizona state and local governments from granting preferential treatment or discrimination based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, or contracting. It specifically bans requiring individuals to endorse race-based policies, spending public funds on offices promoting such policies, or implementing disciplinary actions based on race/ethnicity. The amendment directly affects public schools, universities, government agencies, and contractors operating under state authority. If approved by voters, it would become part of Arizona's Constitution, replacing existing antidiscrimination laws in these specific areas.
SB 1004 allows Arizona students using Educational Savings Accounts (ESAs) to participate in school district sports and activities on the same terms as enrolled students. School districts must apply identical eligibility rules, fees (capped at the student’s pro rata share of costs), and academic requirements - such as passing grades and progress - to ESA students as they do for enrolled students. The bill prohibits districts from charging ESA students more than their fair share of activity costs or contracting with organizations that exclude ESA students. It also bars ESA students from participating if they were enrolled in district schools, multiple private schools, or a private school offering the activity during the same school year.
HB 2895 creates a grant program for Arizona school districts to partner with federally recognized tribes to offer Native American language courses. It also establishes support for teacher certification pathways for those teaching these languages and allows high school students to fulfill foreign language graduation requirements by demonstrating proficiency in a Native American language. The bill directly affects school districts, tribes, teachers seeking certification, and high school students. Key provisions include state-funded grants for language courses, streamlined teacher certification support, and flexibility in meeting graduation language requirements. This policy change aims to increase access to Native American language education within Arizona's public schools.
HB 2621 ensures students in unorganized territories (areas without established school districts) and homeschoolers with disabilities can access special education services. It requires school districts contacted by parents to conduct screenings, evaluations, and provide a free public education if a child qualifies under federal law. The bill mandates that tribal early intervention programs notify school superintendents when children turn 30 months to begin transition planning, and assigns the closest school district to evaluate children by their third birthday. Homeschoolers with disabilities retain federal rights to evaluations and equitable services, while the state education department must investigate violations and publish annual reports.
HB 2764 establishes a voluntary Arizona state seal to recognize high school students who demonstrate computer science proficiency upon graduation. Participating public school districts or charter schools will add this seal to diplomas and note it on transcripts for students meeting state-set minimum requirements. The superintendent of public instruction will create the seal and collaborate with the state board of education to define the proficiency standards. This program affects only students in schools that choose to join, with no mandatory participation for districts or schools.
HB 2032 requires Arizona third graders to demonstrate sufficient reading skills on the statewide assessment to advance to fourth grade. If a student does not meet this standard, they may be retained, but only if test data is available and they haven't been retained before. The bill allows exceptions for English learners, students with special education needs (including dyslexia), or those showing progress through approved assessments. Schools must offer multiple evidence-based reading interventions, provide detailed parent notifications about reading deficiencies, and report retention and intervention data to the state education department. This bill directly affects third graders, Arizona public schools, and their parents.
SB 1413 amends Arizona law to clarify and update the existing veterans' tuition deferment program. It allows eligible veterans to defer payment for tuition, fees, and required books/materials for up to 120 days while awaiting federal VA education benefits, requiring only a no-interest promissory note. If VA benefits haven't arrived by the 120-day deadline, the deferment may be extended until benefits are received. Colleges may withhold grades or transfer credits until the deferred amount is paid. This bill directly affects veterans enrolled in Arizona state colleges or universities who are waiting for VA benefit disbursements.