The bill aims to repeal the Location Act for Community Homes for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Arkansas. It proposes the removal of specific sections from the Arkansas Code, including the definitions, purposes, and regulations associated with the Location Act, which previously governed the establishment and operation of community homes for individuals with developmental disabilities. The bill also amends the definition of "exempt child welfare agency" within the Child Welfare Agency Licensing Act by deleting references to the Location Act, thereby eliminating the legal framework that supported the establishment of these community homes.

Additionally, the bill modifies the reimbursement rate structure for contracting with community programs by amending Arkansas Code 20-48-702(a)(2). It specifies that the department will conduct a review of costs associated with providing Medicaid-covered and state-covered services to individuals with developmental disabilities, while also ensuring compliance with federal and state laws. The amendment includes the insertion of a reference to Arkansas Code 20-48-101 and the deletion of 20-48-603, indicating a shift in the legal framework governing the responsibilities of the state towards individuals eligible for these services.

Statutes affected:
HB 1537: 9-28-402(12), 20-48-702(a)
Act 850: 9-28-402(12), 20-48-702(a)