AR HB1954

Eliminates fees and costs imposed on juveniles and their parents, guardians, or custodians in juvenile court proceedings, including court costs, attorney fees, counsel representation fees, and diversion fees.

Establishes that juveniles shall be presumed indigent regardless of parental resources and prohibits courts from ordering juveniles or parents to pay for appointed counsel, evaluations, treatment plans, or court-approved programs.

Voids all unpaid balances of costs, fees, and fines previously imposed against juveniles, parents, guardians, or custodians under specified Arkansas Code sections before the effective date of the act.

Removes juvenile drug court cases from the adult drug court fee and cost provisions under the Arkansas Drug Court Act.

Redirects any costs saved by this act to community initiatives according to the Division of Youth Services reinvestment plan.