Bill > HB1799

This bill amends the Arkansas Child Maltreatment Act to modify the permissible methods of reporting child maltreatment or suspected child maltreatment by mandated reporters. Specifically, the bill removes "facsimile transmission" (fax) as an acceptable method of reporting, leaving only telephone calls and online reporting as the approved ways for mandated reporters to submit reports. Mandated reporters are typically professionals who, due to their work, are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect, such as teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, and law enforcement personnel. The change appears to be aimed at modernizing and streamlining the reporting process by eliminating an outdated communication method (fax) in favor of more current technologies like telephone and online reporting systems.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1799&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R