AR HB1144

Creates the Arkansas Family Treatment Specialty Court Act, establishing specialized courts within the juvenile division of circuit court to address families in dependency-neglect proceedings affected by substance use or mental health disorders.

Courts must use multidisciplinary, collaborative approaches and provide comprehensive clinical treatment and support services to entire families, with goals including reducing out-of-home placements, achieving permanency quickly, and reunifying families.

Participation is voluntary and limited to parents, guardians, custodians, or caretakers of dependent or dependent-neglected juveniles who agree to comply with court policies and procedures; if multiple caregivers exist, at least one objecting party must receive notice and opportunity to attend all proceedings.

Establishes a Family Treatment Specialty Court Program Fund, with expenditures requiring judge approval and limited to training, travel, user incentives, graduation costs, and supplies; quorum courts must appropriate all fees and approved expenditures.

Services ordered are supplemental to Department of Human Services provisions and must comply with existing statutory requirements, though courts may order services if the provider waives payment, participant has private insurance, or dedicated appropriations exist.