AR SB132

Creates a Commission for Parent Counsel consisting of seven members appointed to six-year staggered terms by the Governor (3), President Pro Tempore of Senate (1), Speaker of House (1), and Chief Justice of Supreme Court (2).

Requires courts to appoint counsel for parents in all dependency-neglect proceedings, particularly when legal custody is removed, and mandates appointment of a provisional parent counsel in ex parte emergency orders.

Establishes that the Commission for Parent Counsel shall enter into contracts with attorneys to provide representation for parents in juvenile division circuit court cases at both trial and appellate levels.

Requires courts to determine parent indigency and counsel eligibility at the probable cause hearing, and ensures parents are notified of their right to counsel in emergency orders and petitions.

Repeals prior provisions allowing the Department of Human Services director to establish a parent counsel program and transfers responsibility to the newly created Commission for Parent Counsel.