Arkansas House Bill HB1355

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/25
• Refer: 2/3/25
• Report Pass: 2/11/25
• Engrossed: 2/12/25
• Refer: 2/12/25
• Report Pass: 2/19/25
• Enrolled: 2/20/25
• Chaptered: 2/25/25
• Passed: 2/25/25

Caption

To Make Technical Corrections To Title 5 Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Criminal Offenses.

Impact

The passage of HB 1355 is intended to streamline procedures related to law enforcement, particularly in the handling of contraband and seized property. Changes proposed within the bill include clarifying requirements for maintaining written reports on disposed contraband, which are vital for ensuring accountability and transparency in law enforcement operations. These modifications are expected to enhance procedural compliance among law enforcement agencies and improve public trust in their operations.

Summary

House Bill 1355, introduced during the 95th General Assembly of Arkansas, aims to make technical corrections to Title 5 of the Arkansas Code, which pertains to criminal offenses. The bill addresses various sections of the code, ensuring accuracy in legal references and aligning definitions with current statutes. This initiative is considered essential for maintaining clear legal guidelines and practices within the state's criminal justice framework.

Contention

While the bill is mostly technical in nature and does not introduce dramatic changes to criminal law, there may still be points of contention surrounding its implications on law enforcement practices. Some advocates for criminal justice reform might express concern that even technical amendments could affect how laws are applied or interpreted, which may inadvertently impact already vulnerable communities. Additionally, ensuring that any technical changes do not subsequently create loopholes or reduce the severity of penalties for specific offenses will be crucial.

Notable_points

Ultimately, HB 1355 highlights the necessity for regular updates and corrections within the legal code to adapt to evolving standards and practices in law enforcement. By providing clarity and eliminating outdated language or references to non-existent offenses, the bill seeks to enhance the legislative framework, demonstrating the Arkansas General Assembly's commitment to a precise and functioning criminal justice system.