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Bill Summary · HB 1357

Summary of House Bill 1357: Relating to Missing Persons

Bill Number: HB 1357
Introduced: January 31, 2025
Status: Referred to JHA, FIN, referral sheet 4
Subject: Alert, Appropriation ($), Missing Indigenous Women, Missing Persons

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1357 aims to make technical corrections to Title 16 of the Arkansas Code, specifically concerning practices, procedures, and courts related to the management of information about inmates and parolees. The bill seeks to enhance public safety and transparency by establishing a mobile application that provides critical information about individuals under parole or post-release supervision.

Key Provisions

  1. Mobile Application Development:

    • The bill mandates the creation of a mobile application known as the "Safe Arkansas App."
    • This app will provide information about inmates and parolees, including:
      • Name and identification number
      • Current photograph
      • Offense details, sentencing information, and eligibility for parole
      • Updates on any subsequent charges against the individual

  2. Information Management:

    • The information displayed on the app must be consistently updated to reflect the most current data available.
    • The app will be administered by the Parole Post-Prison Transfer Board, which may collaborate with the Division of Information Systems for technical support.

  3. Restoration of Rights:

    • The bill allows for the discharge of individuals from parole or post-release supervision if they have served at least five years without violations, particularly for offenses committed as minors.
    • Upon discharge, individuals will have their constitutional right to vote restored.

  4. Corrections to Existing Code:

    • The bill includes various amendments to existing statutes to correct references and terminology, ensuring clarity and accuracy in legal language.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The legislation primarily impacts inmates, parolees, and individuals involved in the criminal justice system in Arkansas.
    • It also aims to benefit the general public by providing accessible information about individuals under supervision, thereby enhancing community safety.

  • Technical and Administrative Changes:

    • The bill requires the establishment of a new mobile application, which may involve additional appropriations for development and maintenance.
    • It also streamlines the process for restoring rights to individuals discharged from supervision, promoting reintegration into society.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 31, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • February 4, 2025: Amendment No. 1 adopted; bill ordered engrossed.
  • February 12, 2025: Passed in the House and sent to the Senate.
  • February 20, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • February 25, 2025: Notification that HB 1357 is now Act 173.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of House Bill 1357, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on the Arkansas community and legal framework.

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

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