AR HB1674

Circuit court retains exclusive original jurisdiction over juvenile delinquency proceedings for juveniles ages 10-18, with possible retention until age 21 if the delinquent act occurred before age 18.

Juveniles adjudicated dependent or dependent-neglected may request court jurisdiction continue until age 21 if engaged in instruction, treatment, or working at least 80 hours monthly toward self-sufficiency.

Court must discontinue jurisdiction only after a hearing determining the juvenile knowingly requested to leave care or failed to meet engagement requirements, and the Department of Human Services fully complied with applicable statutes.

Juveniles who left foster care may petition to return to court jurisdiction before age 21 to receive independent living or transitional services if they were in foster care at age 18.

Juveniles over 18 allowed to reenter foster care may be discharged by the department if they fail to meet engagement or work hour requirements for more than 60 days.