Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1501

Introduced
2/24/23  
Refer
2/27/23  
Report Pass
3/16/23  
Engrossed
3/27/23  
Refer
3/27/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
4/10/23  

Caption

To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning When A Prosecution Is Commenced.

Impact

The implementation of HB1501 is expected to streamline the legal proceedings related to criminal prosecutions. By clearly defining the commencement of prosecution, the bill aims to enhance the consistency and efficiency of the legal process within Arkansas. Establishing these specific triggers for prosecution commencement may also help in addressing issues related to delays in the criminal justice system. The bill's passage could result in a more predictable framework for law enforcement and legal professionals regarding when legal actions against individuals commence.

Summary

House Bill 1501 is an act aimed at amending Arkansas law regarding the commencement of prosecutions. The bill specifically redefines when a prosecution is considered to have commenced within the state. The primary change proposed by this bill is that a prosecution will be initiated either when a person is arrested or issued a citation based on probable cause, when an arrest warrant is issued by a judge (given there is no unreasonable delay in executing this warrant), or at the point a formal charging instrument such as an indictment is filed. This amendment seeks to clarify the timeline and procedures involved in the commencement of legal action against defendants.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1501 appears largely positive, particularly among law enforcement and legal professionals who advocate for clearer legal standards and operational procedures. Supporters argue that the changes will lead to a more efficient criminal justice process, potentially benefiting both law enforcement and defendants by providing greater clarity. However, there may be concerns from civil liberties advocates who worry about any implications regarding due process or the rights of individuals facing prosecution.

Contention

While there does not seem to be significant public contention noted in the discussions surrounding HB1501, potential points of discussion could revolve around the interpretation of 'unreasonable delay' in the execution of arrest warrants and how this may impact the rights of defendants. There could also be broader implications concerning the overall efficiency and fairness of the criminal justice system in Arkansas, depending on how the law is applied through future prosecutions. The effectiveness of this amendment will likely be assessed in practice as legal professionals adapt to the redefined standards.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 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.

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 HB1017

An Act For The Arkansas Public Service Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB37

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HR1015

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

AR SR16

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

AR HB1010

An Act For The Arkansas State University - Arkansas Biosciences Institute Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB51

An Act For The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.