Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1790

Introduced
3/29/23  
Refer
3/29/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Engrossed
4/4/23  
Refer
4/4/23  
Report Pass
4/5/23  
Enrolled
4/7/23  
Chaptered
4/13/23  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning Aggravated Assault And Domestic Battery.

Impact

By amending Arkansas Code § 5-26-303 and § 5-26-304, the bill creates a more stringent legal framework for prosecuting domestic battery and related crimes. It establishes that a person previously convicted of domestic battery or aggravated assault can face increased charges if they commit another offense within a defined timeframe. This change is expected to facilitate harsher sentencing for repeat offenders and signal a zero-tolerance approach to domestic violence within the state, thus possibly leading to a decrease in such crimes.

Summary

House Bill 1790 seeks to amend existing laws concerning aggravated assault and domestic battery in the state of Arkansas. The bill specifically modifies the criteria that define aggravated assault in cases of domestic violence, expanding the circumstances under which an individual can be charged with a felony. The amendments aim to enhance the legal response to domestic violence by imposing stricter penalties on individuals who have previous convictions for related offenses within certain time frames.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1790 appeared to be largely supportive among lawmakers advocating for stronger protections against domestic violence. Supporters argue that the legislation marks a significant step forward in addressing domestic abuse issues and empowering victims. However, some concerns were voiced regarding the potential for the bill to disproportionately affect certain demographics or lead to over-criminalization of individuals with previous minor offenses. Overall, a majority of the discussion seemed focused on emphasizing the importance of protecting victims.

Contention

Points of contention highlighted in discussions around the bill included worries about due process and whether the heightened penalties might discourage individuals from coming forward. Opponents of harsher legislation often draw attention to the need for comprehensive support services for victims rather than just stricter punitive measures. There is a risk that while the amendments strengthen legal penalties, they may not sufficiently address the underlying issues of domestic violence, such as the need for prevention programs and adequate victim support systems.

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 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 HR1009

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR SR5

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

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 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 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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.