AR HB1401

Reduces the cash welfare time limit from 24 months to 12 months for families with work-eligible adults in the household.

Does not affect child-only cases where no work-eligible adults are present in the home.

Maintains existing exemptions and deferrals for individuals unable to obtain employment due to circumstances beyond their control, including those over 60, disabled, caring for disabled relatives, victims of domestic violence, and those in approved education/training programs.

Requires the Division of Workforce Services to conduct enhanced reviews six months before time limit expiration to assess barriers to employment and determine if extensions or exemptions should be granted.

Applies the 12-month limit to both the Transitional Employment Assistance Program and the Arkansas Work Pays Program, with months during suspended benefits not counting toward the limit.