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SB 490

Relating to: prevailing wage, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 14 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 490 allows Arkansas courts to waive the $250 registration fee for juveniles ordered to register as sex offenders, easing financial burdens on families.

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Bill Summary · SB 490

Summary of Senate Bill 490 (SB 490)

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 490 (SB 490) aims to amend existing legislation regarding the registration of juveniles as sex offenders in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to allow courts the discretion to waive certain fees associated with the registration process, specifically a $250 fee that can be a financial burden on families of juveniles who are ordered to register.

Key Provisions

  • Fee Waiver: The bill amends Arkansas Code § 9-27-356(k) to permit circuit courts to waive the $250 registration fee for juveniles ordered to register as sex offenders.
  • Registration Requirements: The bill maintains that juveniles will still be subject to the registration requirements outlined in §§ 12-12-904, 12-12-906, 12-12-908, 12-12-909, and 12-12-912, with the exception of the waived fee.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Juveniles: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are juveniles who are ordered to register as sex offenders. The ability to waive the fee could alleviate financial stress on their families.
  • Judicial System: Courts will have increased discretion in handling cases involving juvenile offenders, allowing for more tailored responses based on individual circumstances.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

  • Introduced: March 17, 2025
  • Committee Actions: The bill was initially deferred by the committee on Housing (HOU) but later passed through the judiciary committee.
  • Passage: SB 490 was read and passed in the Senate on April 1, 2025, and subsequently passed in the House on April 15, 2025.
  • Governor's Approval: The bill was delivered to the Governor on April 15, 2025, and was later enacted as Act 972 on April 23, 2025.

Related Legislation

  • Companion Bill: HB 739 serves as a companion to SB 490, potentially addressing similar issues regarding juvenile registration and associated fees.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 490 represents a significant step towards making the juvenile registration process more accessible by allowing courts to waive fees that may hinder compliance. This legislative change reflects a growing recognition of the financial challenges faced by families in the juvenile justice system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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