AR SB74

Amends Arkansas Code § 20-6-106 to expand surrogate authority under the Arkansas Healthcare Decisions Act to include applying for public benefits such as Medicare and Medicaid for the principal.

Grants surrogates access to the principal's income, assets, and banking and financial records to the extent required to make benefit applications, subject to any federal restrictions or requirements.

Authorizes surrogates to assist with, submit, and execute benefit applications, redetermination of eligibility requests, and other ongoing related communications.

Specifies that surrogate authority terminates when revoked by a principal who no longer lacks decisional capacity, upon appointment or availability of a power of attorney or guardian, or upon the principal's death.

Requires surrogates to meet all federal requirements to act as an authorized representative, including compliance with confidentiality provisions, and permits authority to be granted in writing or recorded orally.