AR SB18

Amends Arkansas Code § 9-27-316(h)(1)(D) to change the standard for appointed counsel in termination of parental rights hearings from "indigent" to "not represented by an attorney" when counsel is requested by the parent.

Adds new subdivision to Arkansas Code § 9-27-341(a)(5)(A) requiring courts to appoint counsel for unrepresented parents who request it in parental rights termination proceedings.

Requires courts to inform parents that they may request appointed counsel in termination of parental rights proceedings.

Amends the State Central Services Fund sources to accept grants and federal funds designated for parent counsel in termination of parental rights proceedings through the Administrative Office of the Courts.

Allows unused funds designated for parent counsel at the end of each fiscal year to carry forward for future use in parental rights termination proceedings.