Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1483

Introduced
2/22/23  
Refer
2/22/23  
Report Pass
3/1/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Report Pass
3/9/23  
Enrolled
3/14/23  
Chaptered
3/17/23  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning Retention Of Criminal Background Checks.

Impact

The implications of HB1483 could be significant in terms of how criminal background checks are handled within Arkansas. By extending the retention period, the bill may enhance the ability of the Bank Commissioner to perform thorough assessments and oversight concerning applicants involved in regulated activities. However, this could also lead to increased discussions regarding individuals' privacy rights and the management of sensitive personal data, as longer retention periods might raise concerns over data security and misuse.

Summary

House Bill 1483 is a legislative initiative aimed at amending the existing laws related to the retention of criminal background checks within the state of Arkansas. Specifically, the bill modifies the duration for which criminal background checks, obtained by the Bank Commissioner, are required to be retained. Previously, these background checks were to be destroyed within a shorter time frame; this bill proposes to extend the retention period from six months to a minimum of three years, providing law enforcement and regulatory agencies with greater access to these records for a longer period of time.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding this bill appears to be somewhat polarized. Supporters argue that retaining background checks for a longer duration aids in maintaining regulatory integrity and enhances public safety by allowing for more comprehensive reviews of individuals' histories before granting licenses or approvals for certain activities. Conversely, critics express apprehension about potential overreach and the need for balancing regulatory requirements with personal privacy, emphasizing that longer retention could contribute to unfair stigmatization of individuals with past criminal records.

Contention

One of the key points of contention is the measure's impact on privacy and individual rights. Opponents may argue that retaining background checks for extended periods could lead to discrimination against individuals who have made efforts to reform, potentially affecting their employment and other opportunities. Supporters of the bill would maintain that having a more extensive background information repository is vital for ensuring responsible governance and safeguarding the interests of the public. The debate underscores a fundamental tension between enhancing regulatory mechanisms and protecting personal privacy rights.

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 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 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 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 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 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 SB23

An Act For The Department Of Commerce - State Insurance Department Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB77

To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act; And To Declare An Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.