AR HB1627

Creates the Child Death and Near Fatality Multidisciplinary Review Committee to examine deaths and near fatalities of children under 18 who had contact with the Division of Children and Family Services within 24 months before death.

Committee membership includes 15 members: the Director of the Division of Children and Family Services, representatives from state agencies including Arkansas State Police, child advocacy organizations, the courts, and appointees from the Governor, Chief Justice, and House legislative committee.

Committee shall meet at least quarterly in closed meetings with confidential discussions; members receive no travel reimbursement and the Department of Human Services provides office space and staff support.

Committee must provide member agencies with child death and near fatality records at least 14 calendar days before meetings and shall produce an annual public report with findings and recommendations to prevent future child deaths.

Act expires August 1, 2017, at which time the House Committee on Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative and Military Affairs shall review whether the committee is needed.