HB1835

House Bill 1835 updates and clarifies the regulatory framework governing Arkansas specialty court programs, including drug, mental health, veterans, and DWI/BWI courts. It repeals existing language regarding record sealing for pre-adjudication probation programs and redefines the scope and evaluation standards for specialty court programs under the supervision of the Supreme Court. The bill establishes procedures for the transfer of specialty court participants between judges and outlines the distribution of court-assessed fees and costs during these transfers. It also modifies how the Administrative Office of the Courts contracts with legal counsel and treatment providers to support specialty court teams. Furthermore, it clarifies that unexpended funds for these services may be repurposed for the support, administration, and expansion of specialty court operations. Finally, the bill updates definitions and fee structures associated with participation in these programs.