The bill amends the Arkansas Juvenile Code of 1989 to clarify definitions and criteria regarding juvenile delinquency. It redefines "delinquent juvenile" to include individuals who are ten years of age or older at the time of the offense and have committed acts that would be prosecutable as felonies or misdemeanors if committed by an adult. The bill also specifies that a juvenile can be considered delinquent for violations of certain laws, including those that can only be committed by juveniles. Additionally, it updates the definition of "juvenile" to include individuals under eighteen years of age at the time of a delinquent offense, even if they have since reached the age of majority.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the procedures for the disposition of delinquent juveniles, allowing courts to commit them to the Division of Youth Services for acts committed while under eighteen. It also clarifies that no juvenile found solely in criminal contempt may be committed to the Division of Youth Services. The order of commitment must explicitly state that the juvenile is adjudicated delinquent and provide details regarding the underlying facts of the adjudication. These changes aim to enhance the legal framework surrounding juvenile delinquency and ensure appropriate handling of cases involving young offenders.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB488 Original - 3-17-2025 04:34 PM: 9-27-303(15), 9-27-303(33), 9-28-206, 9-28-208(a)
Old version SB488 V2 - 4-3-2025 09:36 AM: 9-27-303(15), 9-27-303(33), 9-28-206, 9-28-208(a)
SB 488: 9-27-303(15), 9-27-303(33), 9-28-206, 9-28-208(a)
Act 755: 9-27-303(15), 9-27-303(33), 9-28-206, 9-28-208(a)