Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB186

Introduced
2/1/23  
Refer
2/1/23  
Report Pass
2/15/23  
Engrossed
2/20/23  
Refer
2/20/23  
Report Pass
2/23/23  
Enrolled
2/27/23  
Chaptered
3/14/23  

Caption

To Protect Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities.

Impact

The introduction of SB186 is expected to amend existing state laws concerning the licensure and operation of service providers by incorporating stringent mandates for employee vetting. These changes can potentially lead to an increase in operational responsibilities and compliance costs for service providers, who will have to implement regular screenings to ensure continued employee fitness for their roles. The bill enhances accountability in providing care for individuals with special needs, aligning state practices with safeguarding principles that enhance the welfare of these individuals.

Summary

Senate Bill 186 seeks to enhance the safety and protection of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The bill mandates comprehensive background checks for employees and agents of community service providers who deliver state or federally funded services to these individuals. Requirements include criminal history checks, child and adult maltreatment registry checks, sex offender registry checks, and drug screenings, thereby aiming to ensure that staff providing care are suitable and safe individuals to work with vulnerable populations. This legislation is part of a broader effort to fortify safeguards in the field of developmental disability services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB186 appears to be largely supportive among legislative members, given its focus on empowering vulnerable populations and minimizing risks associated with service provision. Advocates for individuals with disabilities view the bill as a crucial step in ensuring that care environments are safe and secure. However, there may be concerns from service providers regarding the logistics and financial implications of ongoing compliance with the new requirements, suggesting a nuanced reception to the bill among stakeholders in the disability services sector.

Contention

While the bill is generally well-received for its protective intent, there are notable points of contention concerning its feasibility and impact on service delivery. Critics may argue that imposing extensive background checks could hinder the hiring process, potentially leading to workforce shortages in the already strained sector of disability services. Moreover, there may be discussions around the balance between necessary safety protocols and operational efficiencies for service providers. The requirement for recurring screenings could also raise questions about the burden placed on providers and whether such measures might deter capable individuals from entering the field.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB43

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Developmental Disabilities Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1088

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Developmental Disabilities Services Reappropriation.

AR SB19

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Medical Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB80

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1097

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1064

An Act For The Department Of Finance And Administration Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

Similar Bills

HI SB850

Relating To Disability Health Disparity.

HI SB2051

Relating To Disability Health Disparity.

CA AB536

Developmental services.

CA SB283

Developmental services.

HI HB819

Relating To Disability Health Disparity.

CA AB1914

Community colleges: providers of care for individuals with developmental disabilities: model curriculum.

CA AB1417

Community colleges: providers of care for individuals with developmental disabilities: model curriculum for certification program.

CA SB870

Developmental services.