Contested bill requiring restroom use by sex passes committee after heated testimony

House Bill 1156 drew sustained public testimony and prolonged committee questioning before passing the Senate Education Committee by voice vote. Representative Mary Bentley, sponsor on behalf of the bill, framed the measure as a statewide standard to maintain privacy: "11 56 is a very simple bill ... simply states that girls will go to the girls' bathroom and boys will go to the boys' bathroom," she said, adding that students who are uncomfortable would be provided an accommodation. Bentley and a co‑sponsor said superintendents and the Department of Education supported the measure.

Opponents warned the bill would harm transgender students and could expose districts to legal risk. Olivia Gardner, director of education policy for Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, told the committee that "transgender children would be harmed by this proposed legislation," arguing the bill would make daily school routines difficult and increase the risk of mistreatment. Sarah Everett, policy director for the ACLU of Arkansas, cited federal appeals court rulings and said the legal landscape is unsettled, noting that "The Fourth and Seventh Circuits both struck down bathroom policies in other states," and cautioned that the U.S. Supreme Court has not definitively resolved Title IX application in this context.

Supporters cited an Eleventh Circuit decision they said upheld similar policies and argued the bill would protect student privacy and safety. Speakers on both sides urged care: some urged the legislature to act to give districts clarity; others cautioned that the state is handing schools a controversial issue without providing resources or clear legal protection. Committee members questioned enforcement logistics, training and whether guidance or local policies would be sufficient to implement the directive.

Sen. Davis moved for a 'do pass' recommendation; after a final round of remarks the committee held a voice vote and the chair announced "the ayes have it." The bill is reported out of committee with a favorable recommendation.