HB1529

This bill establishes the 'Arkansas Adult Diploma Program Act' to assist Arkansas residents aged 21 and older who have not earned a high school diploma. The program is administered by the Department of Education and provides a framework for public, nonprofit, or other entities to become 'approved program providers.' These providers are tasked with offering adult dropout recovery services, including academic assessment, individualized learning plans, and career-readiness training. Providers are compensated based on student achievement of specific milestones, such as earning course credits, employability certifications, and workforce credentials. The bill mandates strict accountability measures, requiring providers to maintain a minimum 50% graduation rate and an average cost per graduate of $7,000 or less. Providers that fail to meet these performance standards for two consecutive years face removal from the program. The act prohibits double-dipping, meaning providers cannot receive funding for a student if they are already receiving federal, state, or private tuition for the same individual.