NWA Kids Count Pre-Legislative Conference

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The 2010 PRE-LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE in Northwest Arkansas
Thursday, Nov. 18
9:00 to 11:30 a.m.

The Jones Center, Springdale

The Arkansas Kids Count Coalition and its member organizations present the Pre-Legislative Conference held before each regular legislative session.

• Learn about legislation being considered for the upcoming 2011 legislative session that will impact the children and families of Arkansas.
• Hear how the state budget is responding to these tough economic times.
• Discuss the political climate, the proposed bills, and the many challenges that will face members of the Arkansas Legislature as it considers proposals that will affect the education, health, and economic well being of Arkansas children.
• Hear from key stakeholders about how the child welfare and juvenile justice system might be affected by new laws.
• Network with local advocates, policy wonks, political junkies, and people who help shape the legislative session.

Agenda

9 a.m.: Registration and Coffee

9:15: Welcome, Overview
Laura Kellams, Northwest Arkansas Director, Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families

9:25: The 2011 Budget Outlook in Arkansas
Rich Huddleston, Executive Director, AACF and Co-Chair of the Arkansas Legislative Task Force On Reducing Poverty and Promoting Economic Opportunity

9:45: The Children's Agenda for 2011 Session: What You Need to Know
Child Welfare:  Robert Depper, Attorney, Arkansas Department of Human Services
Juvenile Justice: Janet Bledsoe, Attorney Ad Litem
Education: Paul Kelly, Senior Policy Analyst, AACF; Geania Dickey, Arkansas Invest Early Coalition
Health: Laura Kellams, AACF
Economic Self-Sufficiency: Rich Huddleston, AACF

11:15: The Kids Count Network and AACF: How to Stay Informed During the Session
Paul Kelly, AACF; Lynn Donald Carver, AACF Board member

11:30: Conclusion