Arkansas ACCESS

Legislation that would overhaul the state’s higher education system awaits the governor’s signature following the approval of identical bills by the Arkansas Legislature on Monday.

Supporters of Arkansas ACCESS say it will spur education and workforce growth. Opponents say parts of the 123-page bill will disenfranchise students and educators. It could become law as early as this week.

Arkansas lawmakers on Monday advanced legislation that would overhaul the state’s higher education system.

At a meeting of the Legislative Black Caucus Monday, former State Sen. Linda Chesterfield offered notes on the positives and pitfalls of the sweeping higher education bill.