Mountain Home Implements Eli's Law for Student Safety

Mountain Home is taking proactive steps to comply with a new Arkansas state mandate aimed at protecting students in sensitive school environments. Athletic Director Mitch Huskey announced that the district is currently installing audio-only recording devices in locker rooms and changing rooms throughout the campus.

Known as Eli's Law (Act 908), this legislation requires all public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to have audio recording capabilities in these areas by the start of the 2027-2028 school year. The primary goal of the law is to increase student safety by combating bullying, harassment, hazing, and abuse. By providing verifiable evidence, the recordings offer a new level of accountability for school administrators and parents.

To ensure transparency, the district has placed conspicuous signs in every area where audio recording is active. Huskey clarified that these devices are strictly limited to locker and changing rooms; no recording devices have been installed in restrooms.

Privacy and data security are central to the implementation of Eli's Law. These audio recordings are not available through general Freedom of Information (FOIA) or public records requests. Access is strictly limited to school administrators or a parent or legal guardian who has presented a formal allegation of wrongdoing.

The law also mandates strict data retention guidelines. All recordings must be securely stored for a minimum of 90 days and generally cannot be kept longer than 12 months. However, if a recording is tied to an active investigation, it will be preserved as evidence. Additionally, the district must post a public notice on its official website at least 10 days before any audio files are permanently destroyed.

By implementing these measures now, Mountain Home aims to provide a safer, more secure environment for all students.

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