College students would be able to defer their state scholarships for up to two years for community service or family emergency under a bill passed by the Arkansas House.
The bill approved Tuesday allows the Arkansas Department of Higher Education to approve holds on Governor's Scholars and Governor's Distinguished Scholarships.
The department can hold a student's scholarship for military service, family or medical emergency or a commitment of community service.
The bill's sponsor, Republican Rep. Nate Bell of Mena, says he was approached by a mother whose son had a state scholarship but wanted to go on a mission through the Mormon church.
The bill passed 99-0. It now goes to the Arkansas Senate.