AR
Arkansas House Bill HB1059

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1059

Introduced
12/9/24  
Refer
1/13/25  

Caption

To Provide The Option For A Free Lifetime Hunting And Fishing License To A Commercial Truck Driver Who Is A Resident And Provides Certain Information Related To Human Trafficking.

Impact

The proposed legislation modifies existing statutes under Arkansas law related to the issuance of hunting and fishing licenses. By specifically targeting commercial truck drivers and providing them with this incentive, the bill creates a new framework that ties recreational licensing to the act of aiding law enforcement in dealing with human trafficking. As a result, it is expected that the state may see increased cooperation from truck drivers, who often serve as eyes on the road, thereby leading to more proactive measures in identifying and rescuing victims of trafficking.

Summary

House Bill 1059 aims to enhance public safety by offering a free lifetime hunting and fishing license to commercial truck drivers who provide crucial information regarding human trafficking to law enforcement. Specifically, the bill stipulates that such a license will be available to residents of Arkansas who can provide tips leading either to the rescue of human trafficking victims or the conviction of perpetrators. This initiative seeks to leverage the wide-reaching network of truck drivers to combat a serious social issue within the state.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to positively impact efforts to combat human trafficking, there may be discussions regarding its actual effectiveness in incentivizing truck drivers to act. Critics could argue whether a hunting and fishing license is a substantial enough reward for the risks involved in reporting trafficking cases. Furthermore, there may also be concerns regarding the funding mechanism for reimbursing the state game commission for the costs associated with the free licenses. The implementation and administration of such a program may raise logistical issues that need to be addressed to ensure seamless operation and genuine participation from truck drivers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1763

To Establish Maximum Fees For A Youth Lifetime Hunting And Fishing License For Residents Ten (10) Years Of Age Or Younger; And To Authorize A Transaction Fee For Certain Transactions For Hunting And Fishing Licenses.

AR HB1033

Regarding Hunting Licenses And Fishing Licenses For Residents; And To Authorize A Minor Who Is Required To Obtain A Hunting License Or Fishing License To Pay The Resident Fee When Visiting A Parent Or Legal Guardian.

AR HB1459

To Amend The Law Concerning Human Trafficking And Related Offenses; And To Amend The Law Concerning Fines For Human Trafficking.

AR HB1429

To Amend The Law Concerning The Issuance Of A Driver's License To Certain Applicants.

AR SB6

To Create A Lifetime Certificate Of License As A Contractor.

AR HB1147

To Amend The Real Estate License Law; And To Create An Exemption For Arkansas Licensed Residential Construction Companies.

AR SB375

To Amend The Law Concerning The Distribution And Use Of Funds In The Commercial Driver License Fund.

AR HB1446

To Provide State Oversight Of Quality Of Care Provided To Children In Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities And Other Regulated Facilities.

AR HB1625

To Create And Issue A Driver's License With A Firearm Designation; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Fees For The Issuance Of A Driver's License.

AR SB183

To Amend The Exemptions For Licensure Under The Residential Contractors Committee; And To Upgrade Home Improvement Contractor Licenses Obtained Before December 31, 2022, To Residential Building Contractor Licenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.