AR HB1384

Amends Arkansas Code § 9-28-215 to define "identifying and descriptive information" for juveniles as photos, names, ages, and felony offenses for which they are committed to the Division of Youth Services.

Requires the Director of the Division of Youth Services to release identifying and descriptive information to the general public when a committed juvenile leaves their assigned placement without authorization if the juvenile is committed for a felony offense, poses a serious threat to public safety, or is at heightened risk of harm due to age, disability, medical condition, mental capacity, or emergency circumstances.

Mandates release of identifying and descriptive information for juveniles committed under extended juvenile jurisdiction.

Requires the Division of Youth Services to promulgate rules detailing the factors to be considered in determining when identifying and descriptive information may be released.

Maintains existing provisions allowing release of information by the Division of Behavioral Health for juveniles departing without authorization from the Arkansas State Hospital and by local juvenile detention facility directors for juveniles departing from detention facilities.