HB1382
To Require Certain Reporting By The Designated Protection And Advocacy Agency For The State And The Designated Client Assistance Program For The State.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1382, mandates increased reporting requirements for the designated Protection and Advocacy Agency and the designated Client Assistance Program in Arkansas. These agencies will be required to submit biannual reports to the Hospital, Medicaid, and Developmental Disabilities Study Subcommittee of the Legislative Council, as well as to the Governor. The reports must detail their efforts to advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities residing in home and community-based settings, rather than facilities. Furthermore, these agencies must attend meetings of the study subcommittee when requested and provide requested information promptly. The Legislative Council's study subcommittee will be responsible for reviewing these submitted reports. The bill also clarifies that the Freedom of Information Act of 1967 applies to Disability Rights of Arkansas, Inc., or its successor organization, which serves as the designated Protection and Advocacy Agency and Client Assistance Program.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be individuals with developmental disabilities in Arkansas, particularly those living in home and community-based settings. By requiring more frequent and detailed reporting from their advocacy and client assistance programs, the bill aims to ensure these vulnerable individuals receive adequate representation and support. The Hospital, Medicaid, and Developmental Disabilities Study Subcommittee of the Legislative Council and the Governor would also benefit from increased transparency and information regarding the services and advocacy efforts for this population. Additionally, Disability Rights of Arkansas, Inc. or its successor could be considered beneficiaries by having their operations and reporting practices clearly outlined and subject to public oversight.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary groups that would be negatively impacted by this bill are the designated Protection and Advocacy Agency for the state and the designated Client Assistance Program for the state, which appear to be Disability Rights of Arkansas, Inc. or its successor. These entities will incur additional administrative burdens and resource demands associated with preparing and submitting biannual reports, attending meetings upon request, and providing information to the legislative subcommittee. The requirement to adhere to the Freedom of Information Act also implies increased scrutiny and potential disclosure of internal processes or client-related information, which could require additional compliance efforts and potentially impact operational privacy.