HB1497 Summary

• Expands Arkansas Code § 16-43-1002 to permit certified facility dogs to accompany not only child witnesses but also vulnerable witnesses (persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities or significant cognitive impairments) during criminal testimony.

• Modifies the definition of "certified facility dog" to require specific training for legal system services rather than a fixed 2-year training requirement, and updates handler qualifications to include knowledge of court protocols and policies.

• Adds new definition of "vulnerable witness" as a person testifying in criminal proceedings with intellectual/developmental disabilities or cognitive impairment from brain injury or progressive neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

• Authorizes certified facility dogs and their handlers to access multiple locations including courthouses, children's advocacy centers, schools, law enforcement agencies, prosecuting attorney offices, medical facilities, specialty courts, and related facilities.

• Requires courts to allow facility dogs to accompany witnesses without jury presence during seating and testimony, with appropriate jury instructions to prevent prejudice against or in favor of any party.