Arkansas State Library Board Faces Major Overhaul
In a surprising turn of events at the Arkansas State Capitol, the state Senate has approved a proposal to completely overhaul the Arkansas State Library Board. This decision comes just a day after a House committee rejected a bill that would have abolished the board altogether.
The Senate’s proposal, known as SB640, would result in all current board members being removed from their positions, including controversial member Jason Rapert. Under the proposal, Governor Sarah Sanders would appoint seven new members to the board for staggered terms ranging from one to seven years.
The move to reconstitute the board comes after months of turmoil spurred by Rapert’s attempts at censorship. Several members who have opposed Rapert’s actions are expected to be replaced under the new proposal, though there is a possibility that some could be reappointed.
Senator Jonathan Dismang, who sponsored SB640, emphasized the need to start fresh with a new board, describing the current situation as “dysfunctional.” The bill now awaits action in the House, where it is expected to generate substantial debate.
The Senate’s decision to restructure the Arkansas State Library Board comes on the heels of a related bill, SB536, that would have eliminated the board entirely and shifted its responsibilities to the state Department of Education. However, this bill was rejected by a House committee, prompting the new proposal for board reconstitution.
Overall, the move to revamp the Arkansas State Library Board signifies a significant shift in the state’s approach to library governance and has the potential to reshape the board’s direction in the future.
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