AR HB1706

Amends the definition of "child" under the Child Welfare Agency Licensing Act to include persons adjudicated dependent-neglected, dependent, or members of families in need of services before age 18 for whom the juvenile court retains jurisdiction.

Clarifies the definition of "foster home" to explicitly exclude homes suspended or closed by a child placement agency.

Modifies criminal background check requirements by reducing the lookback period from 6 years to 5 years for various positions including employees, volunteers, foster parents, and adoptive parents in child welfare agencies.

Allows the Child Welfare Agency Review Board or its designee to grant requests for "special consideration" to deviate from licensing rules if the deviation is in the best interest of children and does not pose a risk to persons served.

Changes terminology and procedures related to corrective action notices, allowing agencies 20 working days (increased from 15) to respond to notices of noncompliance and permitting reconsideration requests based on alleged errors.