The bill aims to amend the state's jurisdiction over federal lands, specifically focusing on juvenile justice matters. It establishes legislative findings that highlight concerns raised by the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services regarding the protection of children of service members in Department of Defense schools and military bases. The bill seeks to extend the state's jurisdiction over juvenile justice to areas of exclusive federal jurisdiction, such as military installations, and requires the Legislative Council to approve any extensions of concurrent jurisdiction when the General Assembly is not in session. Additionally, it mandates that reciprocal agreements between the U.S. Department of Defense and state or local governments be filed with the county clerk and compiled by the Attorney General.

Key amendments to the Arkansas Code include the addition of a provision granting exclusive jurisdiction to state courts over juvenile delinquency cases arising from acts committed on military installations. The bill also modifies existing laws regarding the cession of jurisdiction to the federal government, ensuring that juvenile justice jurisdiction is maintained for cases referred by the U.S. Furthermore, it allows for local agreements to be established for coordination of services and responsibilities related to federal installations. The process for transmitting jurisdictional notices to the General Assembly is also updated to include the Legislative Council when the Assembly is not in session.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1815 Original - 3-17-2025 02:55 PM: 9-27-306, 22-7-101, 22-7-102(b)
Old version HB1815 V2 - 3-31-2025 12:17 PM: 9-27-306, 22-7-101, 03-31-2025, 22-7-102(b)
HB 1815: 9-27-306, 22-7-101, 22-7-102(b)