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Bill Summary · HB 1430

Summary of House Bill 1430

Bill Number: HB 1430
Title: To Amend the Definitions Under the Domestic Abuse Act of 1991
Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: February 06, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1430 aimed to amend specific definitions within the Domestic Abuse Act of 1991 in Arkansas. The primary intent was to clarify and expand the definitions related to behaviors that constitute domestic abuse, thereby enhancing the legal framework for addressing such issues.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed the following amendments:

  1. Definition of "Course of Control":

    • The bill sought to redefine "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.

  2. Definition of "Disturbing the Peace":

    • The bill expanded the definition of "disturbing the peace" to include, but not be limited to, the following behaviors:
      • Exhibiting course of control
      • Stalking
      • Repeatedly threatening
      • Criminal impersonation
      • Verbally or electronically harassing with the intent to harass
      • Harassing through surveillance
      • Destroying personal property
      • Criminal trespass

These changes were intended to provide law enforcement and the judiciary with clearer guidelines for identifying and prosecuting acts of domestic abuse.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1430 would have affected:

  • Victims of Domestic Abuse: By providing clearer definitions, the bill aimed to offer better protection and legal recourse for individuals experiencing domestic abuse.
  • Law Enforcement and Judicial System: The amendments would have equipped law enforcement officers and judges with more precise language to address and prosecute domestic abuse cases effectively.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 06, 2025: Bill filed.
  • February 10, 2025: Bill read for the first time, rules suspended, read a second time, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
  • May 05, 2025: Bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

Conclusion

While HB 1430 did not progress beyond the committee stage, its proposed amendments highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the legal definitions surrounding domestic abuse in Arkansas. The bill's intent was to enhance protections for victims and improve the legal tools available to address domestic violence effectively.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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