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SB 325

TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS JUVENILE CODE OF 1989; TO AMEND THE CHILD MALTREATMENT ACT; TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING REINSTATEMENT OF PARENTAL RIGHTS; AND TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING THE CHILD MALTREATMENT CENTRAL REGISTRY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alan Clark

Arkansas bill amending juvenile code, parental rights reinstatement, and maltreatment reporting processes failed to pass House in 2025 session.

Died on House Calendar at Sine Die adjournment.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 325

Legislative bill overview

SB 325 would have modified Arkansas's juvenile code and child welfare laws, including amendments to the Child Maltreatment Act, procedures for reinstating parental rights, and the management of the Child Maltreatment Central Registry. The bill passed the Senate but ultimately failed in the House, dying at the end of the legislative session.

Why is this important

Child welfare laws directly affect thousands of Arkansas families involved in the foster care and family court systems. Changes to maltreatment reporting, parental rights restoration, and registry procedures can significantly impact how child protective services operate and how quickly parents can regain custody of children removed from their care.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental rights reinstatement standards: Amendments to reinstatement procedures could either make it easier or harder for parents to regain custody, depending on specific language—a highly contentious balance between family preservation and child safety
  • Registry accuracy and privacy: Changes to the Child Maltreatment Central Registry raise questions about due process, how accusations are recorded, and potential impacts on individuals falsely accused
  • Maltreatment reporting thresholds: Modifications to what constitutes reportable maltreatment could expand or restrict the scope of child protective services involvement in families

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

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