AR HB1270

Adds a definition of "childcare institution" to Arkansas Code § 9-28-402 as a public or private placement or care setting for children, including group homes, residential treatment centers, shelters, and other congregate care settings licensed or approved by the Child Welfare Agency Review Board, out-of-state authorities, tribal authorities, or Tribal Title IV-E agencies.

Excludes foster homes, detention facilities, forestry camps, training schools, and other facilities operated primarily for detaining children determined by a court to be delinquent from the definition of "childcare institution."

Defines "public childcare institution" as a childcare institution accommodating no more than 25 children at a time and operated by a state or local government entity.

Requires adults working in a childcare institution to undergo criminal record and child maltreatment checks under Arkansas Code § 9-28-409(a)(1), (b)(1), and (c)(1) by adding them to the list of persons subject to background check requirements.

Takes effect upon approval, with bill approved on March 4, 2021.