AR HB1746

Amends Arkansas Code § 12-18-401 to grant civil and criminal immunity to individuals who report suspected child maltreatment to the Child Abuse Hotline in good faith.

Allows any person to immediately notify the Child Abuse Hotline if they have reasonable cause to suspect child maltreatment has occurred or a child has died as a result of maltreatment.

Extends immunity protection to individuals who observe a child being subjected to conditions or circumstances that would reasonably result in child maltreatment.

Immunity applies only when notifications are made in good faith and in accordance with the reporting requirements outlined in the statute.

Approved on April 12, 2019, as Act 970 of the Regular Session.