AR HB1736

Allows juveniles adjudicated as dependent or dependent-neglected to petition the court to remain in or return to extended foster care until age 21 to receive transitional services and support.

Permits the Department of Human Services to discharge a youth from extended foster care if they fail to engage in education, employment (80+ hours per month), treatment, or other qualifying activities for more than 60 days without a viable plan to comply.

Eliminates the requirement for six-month review hearings for youth over 18 years of age who elect to remain in or return to extended foster care.

Establishes an extended foster care program providing case management services and financial assistance for room and board costs to eligible youth ages 18-21 who are completing education, employed, participating in employment programs, or incapable of work due to documented medical conditions.

Requires transition plans to inform youth of their right to stay in extended foster care and specifies that participation in extended foster care does not impede rights granted by age of majority, including consent to medical treatment and contracting.