§ 12-18-102 — Purpose

Arkansas § 12-18-102

• Jurisdiction: Arkansas
• Title: 12

Text

The purpose of this chapter is to: (1) Provide a system for the reporting of known or suspected child maltreatment; (2) Ensure the immediate screening, safety assessment, and prompt investigation of reports of known or suspected child maltreatment; (3) Ensure that immediate steps are taken to: (A) Protect a maltreated child and any other child under the same care who may also be in danger of maltreatment; and (B) Place a child whose health or physical well-being is in immediate danger in a safe environment; (4) Provide immunity from criminal prosecution for an individual making a good faith report of suspected child maltreatment; (5) Preserve the confidentiality of all records in order to protect the rights of the child and of the child's parents or guardians; (6) Encourage the cooperation of state law enforcement officials, courts, and state agencies in the investigation, assessment, prosecution, and treatment of child maltreatment; and (7) Stabilize the home environment if a child's health and safety are not at risk.

Legislative History

Acts 2009, No. 749, § 1; 2011, No. 1143, § 1.