HB1430
To Amend The Definitions Under The Domestic Abuse Act Of 1991.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1430 seeks to amend the definitions of 'course of control' and 'disturbing the peace' within the Arkansas Domestic Abuse Act of 1991. The bill refines the definition of 'course of control' to mean a pattern of behavior between family or household members that unreasonably interferes with a person's free will and personal liberty. Additionally, the bill expands the list of behaviors categorized under 'disturbing the peace.' This list now explicitly includes exhibiting a course of control, stalking, repeated threats, criminal impersonation, harassment, electronic harassment, surveillance, destruction of personal property, and criminal trespass. The intent is to modernize and clarify the legal terminology used to identify abusive conduct in domestic settings.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are victims of domestic abuse, family members, and individuals living in household settings who may be subject to coercive control or harassment. By broadening the definitions of prohibited behaviors, the bill provides law enforcement, legal professionals, and the court system with clearer statutory language to identify, prosecute, and provide protective measures for those experiencing domestic abuse.
Who Might Suffer?
Individuals accused of domestic abuse or those involved in legal disputes related to domestic relations may be negatively impacted by this bill. Because the definitions of 'course of control' and 'disturbing the peace' are expanded, actions that were previously ambiguous or less clearly defined as domestic abuse may now subject an individual to increased legal scrutiny, potential restraining orders, or enhanced criminal charges.
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