AR SB166

Amends Arkansas Code § 9-27-325(i)(1)(A) to allow certain individuals to attend dependency-neglect hearings, which were previously closed in all cases involving child maltreatment and foster care.

Permits relatives, fictive kin, or individuals with family connections to attend hearings unless the court determines exclusion serves the child's best interest or is authorized under Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure or Evidence.

Requires courts to confirm the identity of attendees and prohibits them from disclosing any information obtained during the hearing.

Allows courts to grant attendance to other interested individuals if it serves the child's best interest and the individual demonstrates sincere and legitimate need as determined by the court.

Makes unauthorized disclosure of hearing information a Class C misdemeanor offense.