SB340

Senate Bill 340 amends Arkansas law concerning fees, expenses, and costs imposed on juveniles and their families within the juvenile justice system. The bill primarily removes the authority of courts to charge juveniles or their parents for attorney's fees, representation costs, and diversion fees. It establishes that there is a rebuttable presumption of indigency for juveniles regarding the appointment of counsel. The bill also updates definitions within the Arkansas Juvenile Code of 1989 and clarifies procedures for case diversion, stipulating that such processes should generally be provided at no cost. It mandates that certain financial provisions are subject to legislative funding and appropriation. Additionally, the bill includes a provision for the Department of Human Services to develop a statewide referral protocol for sexually exploited children.