SB734 Summary

• Adds Arkansas Code 9-27-369 establishing procedures for reinstatement of parental rights by the Department of Human Services, attorney ad litem, or parents whose rights were previously terminated.

• Requires at least 1 year to pass since termination order and a permanency plan (adoption, guardianship, or permanent custody) must not be achievable within 1 year to file a reinstatement petition.

• Parents filing petitions must prove by clear and convincing evidence they have remedied the grounds for original termination for at least 6 consecutive months.

• Juveniles age 14 or older must consent to reinstatement; if they object, the petition is dismissed; if they consent, a hearing must be held within 90 days.

• Upon reinstatement, the court may order temporary or trial placement (up to 60 days) with the parent; successful placement for 6 months results in case closure and full restoration of parental rights, while unsuccessful placement results in dismissal of the petition.