The bill proposes the transfer of the Child Welfare Ombudsman Division and the Juvenile Ombudsman Division to the Department of Inspector General, creating a new entity known as the Division of Ombudsmen. This restructuring aims to enhance oversight and improve the functioning of child welfare services in Arkansas. The bill also repeals existing statutes related to the previous divisions, effectively dissolving their former structures and establishing a new legal framework that outlines the powers and duties of the Child Welfare Ombudsman and Juvenile Ombudsman, emphasizing their independence from state agencies.

The newly established offices will be responsible for informing the public about their services, preparing annual reports on the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, and ensuring the confidentiality of juveniles involved in these systems. The bill grants both Ombudsman offices the authority to communicate with juveniles and their parents, access juvenile case information, and facilitate grievance processes. An emergency clause is included, indicating that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025, to ensure a smooth transition and continued service provision during the transfer of responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
HB 1964: 16-87-216, 25-19-101, 20-82-211, 9-27-301, 12-18-101, 9-27-303, 9-28-407
Act 825: 16-87-216, 25-19-101, 20-82-211, 9-27-301, 12-18-101, 9-27-303, 9-28-407