AR HB1516

Amends Arkansas Code Title 12, Chapter 11 to add Section 12-11-111 permitting law enforcement officers to transport intoxicated persons to sobering centers as an alternative to jail detention.

Defines "sobering center" as a facility providing recovery, detoxification, and recuperation from alcohol effects, focusing on treating alcoholics and intoxicated persons.

Upon admission to a sobering center, the person is no longer in legal custody of the law enforcement officer and is considered to have voluntarily admitted themselves once observation begins.

Sobering centers may be associated with acute care units, community mental health centers, or crisis stabilization units.

Law enforcement officers acting in good faith during transport to a sobering center are immune from civil or criminal liability, but persons detained for boating/driving while intoxicated or felony offenses are ineligible for this option.