AR
Arkansas Senate Bill SB546

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB546

Introduced
3/30/23  
Refer
3/30/23  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning Mail Sent To A State Inmate; And To Require Certain Redactions From A Client File Mailed To A State Inmate.

Impact

The implementation of SB546 would significantly tighten the regulations associated with legal correspondence involving inmates. By requiring attorneys to redact sensitive personal information before sending client files to inmates, it aims to protect the identity and safety of victims and witnesses from potential retaliation or harassment. Advocates of the bill argue that these changes are necessary to uphold victim rights and maintain the integrity of the judicial process, particularly in cases that involve violent crimes or sensitive matters.

Summary

Senate Bill 546 is legislation aimed at amending the existing laws regarding mail sent to state inmates in Arkansas. The bill mandates specific provisions for attorneys who send materials to inmates, particularly focusing on the necessity of redacting personal identifiable information (PII) linked to victims, witnesses, and correctional employees from client files. The definition of PII includes sensitive data such as individuals' birth dates, Social Security numbers, and contact details, but notably excludes the inmate's name. This amendment seeks to enhance the safety and privacy of those involved in criminal cases and the correctional system.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB546 may arise from concerns regarding the potential impacts on inmate representation and legal rights. Critics may argue that stringent redaction requirements could complicate the attorney-client communication process, possibly impeding inmates' access to necessary legal support. Supporters, however, maintain that the safety of victims and witnesses must be prioritized above potential conveniences for inmates, leading to a broader debate on the balance between accountability and legal rights in the criminal justice system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 SCR1

To Amend The Joint Rules Of The House Of Representatives And The Senate Of The Ninety-fourth General Assembly Of The State Of Arkansas.

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.

AR HR1012

To Amend The Rules Of The House Of Representatives Of The Ninety-fourth General Assembly.

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 SR10

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.