The bill seeks to amend Arkansas laws concerning specialty court programs, particularly focusing on the sealing of records upon successful completion of these programs. It repeals Arkansas Code 5-4-906, which previously governed the sealing process for pre-adjudication probation programs, and introduces a new subchapter titled "Specialty Court Programs." This new framework includes definitions and procedures for various specialty courts, such as drug courts, mental health courts, and veterans treatment courts. The bill grants judges the authority to dismiss cases and seal records based on recommendations from prosecuting attorneys, while also specifying that there is no limit on the number of prior felony convictions for sealing purposes, with certain offenses excluded from this provision.

Additionally, the bill modifies the structure and operation of specialty court programs by establishing a Division of Specialty Court Programs within the Administrative Office of the Courts, which will oversee the training of judges and staff and manage a statewide information system. It emphasizes the need for judicial intervention in substance abuse cases, clarifies eligibility criteria for participants, and mandates the development of policies and procedures manuals for drug court programs. The bill also introduces financial responsibilities for offenders, including user fees, and enhances data collection on program outcomes. Overall, the legislation aims to improve the effectiveness, accountability, and coordination of specialty court programs in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
HB 1835: 5-4-906, 16-90-1401, 10-3-2901(b), 16-10-139, 5-4-901, 16-98-301, 16-93-1701, 9-27-801, 16-98-302(b), 16-10-141, 16-17-707, 16-10-141(b), 5-4-907, 16-10-701, 16-98-304, 16-101-104, 16-93-104(a), 16-10-143, 16-10-144, 19-11-709(d), 16-102-101, 16-101-101, 16-98-303, 16-90-1403(b), 16-98-302, 16-98-306, 9-27-334, 16-98-305, 16-93-1202, 12-12-901, 5-70-102, 5-39-201(a), 5-39-201(b), 5-39-202, 5-65-103, 16-10-305, 12-27-125(b), 14-14-1313, 16-98-303(b), 10-3-2901, 16-100-101(2), 16-100-202(b), 16-100-204, 16-100-208, 16-9-1602, 16-101-106, 16-93-1202(10), 16-102-102(d), 16-102-102(g)