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Bill

HB 1799

TO AMEND THE PERMISSIBLE METHODS OF REPORTING UNDER THE CHILD MALTREATMENT ACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Clarke Tucker and 1 co-sponsor

Act 685 modernizes child maltreatment reporting in Arkansas, allowing mandated reporters to use phone, fax, or online methods for quicker intervention and better child protection.

Notification that HB1799 is now Act 685
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1799

Summary of House Bill 1799 (Act 685)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1799, now known as Act 685, aims to amend the permissible methods of reporting child maltreatment under the Arkansas Child Maltreatment Act. The bill seeks to streamline and modernize the reporting process for mandated reporters, ensuring that concerns about child maltreatment can be communicated effectively and efficiently.

Key Provisions

The primary amendment made by HB 1799 includes the following:

  • Permissible Reporting Methods: The bill updates Arkansas Code § 12-18-302(a) to specify that mandated reporters can report instances of child maltreatment or suspected maltreatment through:
    • Telephone Calls
    • Facsimile Transmissions
    • Online Reporting

This change is intended to enhance accessibility and convenience for those who are legally required to report suspected child maltreatment.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily impacts:
- Mandated Reporters: Individuals who are legally obligated to report suspected child maltreatment, which may include teachers, healthcare professionals, social workers, and law enforcement officers.
- Children and Families: The amendment aims to improve the reporting process, potentially leading to quicker interventions for children at risk of maltreatment.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 17, 2025
  • Committee Review: The bill was reviewed by the Committee on Aging, Children and Youth, & Legislative Affairs in the House.
  • Amendment Adoption: An amendment was adopted on March 20, 2025, adding Senator C. Tucker as a cosponsor.
  • Passage: The bill passed through both the House and Senate on April 10, 2025.
  • Enactment: HB 1799 was officially enacted as Act 685 on April 16, 2025.

Conclusion

Act 685 represents a significant step towards improving the mechanisms for reporting child maltreatment in Arkansas. By allowing multiple methods of reporting, the legislation aims to facilitate timely and effective responses to suspected cases of child abuse or neglect, ultimately enhancing the protection of vulnerable children in the state.

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

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