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Bill

SR 13

TO RECOGNIZE APRIL AS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH IN ARKANSAS AND TO COMMEND THE COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATE (CASA) PROGRAMS.

2026 Fiscal Session Introduced by Jonathan Dismang

Arkansas designates April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and commends volunteer CASA court advocate programs statewide.

Sine Die adjournment
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Bill Summary · SR 13

Legislative bill overview

Senate Resolution 13 designates April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Arkansas and officially commends the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs operating within the state. This is a ceremonial resolution that does not create new laws or allocate funding, but rather formally recognizes awareness efforts and existing advocacy organizations.

Why is this important

Child abuse prevention awareness campaigns help increase public recognition of warning signs and available resources, potentially leading to more reports and interventions. CASA programs rely heavily on volunteer advocates who represent children's interests in court proceedings, and official state recognition can boost volunteer recruitment, public support, and organizational visibility for these critical services.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive action - Critics may argue that designating a month is performative gesture politics that does not address systemic funding needs or gaps in child welfare services
  • Adequacy of CASA resources - While commending CASA, the resolution does not provide additional funding or resources; advocates may question whether recognition without investment truly supports these organizations
  • Broader child welfare concerns - Some may view this as insufficient given ongoing debates about Arkansas's child protective services capacity, caseloads, and outcomes for at-risk children

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

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