The proposed legislation seeks to transfer the Child Welfare Ombudsman Division and the Juvenile Ombudsman Division from their current affiliations with the Arkansas Child Abuse/Rape/Domestic Violence Commission and the Arkansas Public Defender Commission to a newly established Division of Ombudsmen within the Department of Inspector General. It creates the positions of Child Welfare Ombudsman and Juvenile Ombudsman, who will report directly to the Secretary of the Department of Inspector General. The bill also repeals existing statutes related to the previous divisions, specifically Arkansas Code 16-87-216 and 20-82-211, which defined their roles and responsibilities. This restructuring aims to enhance the independence of the Ombudsmen, allowing them to effectively review and recommend changes to procedures under the Arkansas Juvenile Code and the Child Maltreatment Act.

The legislation outlines the powers and duties of both the Child Welfare Ombudsman and the Juvenile Ombudsman, including responsibilities such as informing the public, preparing annual reports, and ensuring confidentiality regarding juveniles. The Ombudsmen will have access to juvenile case information and will monitor the Division of Youth Services, ensuring juveniles can access grievance processes. Both offices are required to submit annual reports to state officials and committees to promote transparency and accountability. The bill includes an emergency clause, indicating it will take effect on July 1, 2025, to facilitate a smooth transition and uninterrupted service provision.

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