RELATING TO CRISIS INTERVENTION.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Micah Aiu and 43 co-sponsors

HB 1831 mandates the Attorney General to manage settlement funds for consumer restitution and support behavioral health services, enhancing accountability and community care.

Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-26-24 4:40 PM; CR 329.

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Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1831 (HB 1831) aims to amend existing laws regarding the use of settlement funds by the Attorney General of Arkansas. The bill is designed to enhance the management and distribution of funds received from legal settlements or judgments, particularly in relation to crisis intervention and behavioral health services.

Key Provisions

Amendment of Arkansas Code § 25-16-718: The bill revises the existing statute concerning the use of settlement and civil penalty funds. Key changes include:

Creation of Accounts: The Attorney General is required to create and maintain accounts for funds received from settlements or judgments where the state is a party.
Distribution of Funds: Funds must be distributed for specific purposes, including:
Restitution to consumers or state agencies as designated by court orders.
Payment of attorney's fees and civil penalties.
Support for personal services, operating expenses, or grants related to the Attorney General's office.
Quarterly Reporting: The Attorney General's office must provide quarterly reports to the Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee detailing:
The case names and amounts of funds received.
Plans for fund disbursement.
Itemized expenditures for consumer education and enforcement activities.

Affected Parties

Attorney General's Office: The bill directly impacts how the Attorney General manages and reports on settlement funds.

Arkansas Consumers and State Agencies: Consumers may benefit from restitution and support services funded by these settlements.

Behavioral Health Services: The bill supports the establishment and funding of Behavioral Health Crisis Centers, which are crucial for addressing mental health crises in the community.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

Introduced: March 18, 2025.

Status: The bill is currently in the conference committee stage, with a meeting scheduled for April 26, 2024, at 4:40 PM in Conference Room 329.

Legislative Actions: The bill has passed multiple readings and has been amended in both the House and Senate. It is now designated as Act 690 as of April 16, 2025.

Conclusion

HB 1831 represents a significant step towards improving the management of settlement funds in Arkansas, particularly in the context of crisis intervention and behavioral health services. By establishing clearer guidelines for fund distribution and reporting, the bill aims to enhance accountability and ensure that resources are effectively utilized to support Arkansas residents in need.

Bill