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SB 511

Relating to: returning an absentee ballot with an incomplete certificate or with no certificate.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 8 co-sponsors

Arkansas Act 757 makes impairing ATMs a Class D felony, protecting financial transactions and ensuring reliable banking services for consumers and institutions.

Representative Subeck added as a cosponsor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 511

Summary of Senate Bill 511 (SB 511)

Overview

Senate Bill 511, now known as Act 757, was introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly on March 18, 2025. The primary purpose of this legislation is to establish a new criminal offense related to automated teller machines (ATMs), specifically addressing actions that impair their operation.

Purpose and Intent

The intent of SB 511 is to enhance the legal framework surrounding the protection of automated teller machines. By creating the offense of "automated teller machine impairment," the bill aims to deter individuals from engaging in activities that could disrupt the functionality of ATMs, thereby safeguarding financial transactions and the integrity of banking services.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Arkansas Code Title 5, Chapter 38, Subchapter 2, by adding a new section (5-38-208) that outlines the following:

  • Definition of Automated Teller Machine:

    • An "automated teller machine" is defined as an electronic device located in Arkansas that accepts or dispenses cash in connection with financial transactions or credit card operations. This definition also includes customer-bank communication terminals.

  • Criminal Offense:

    • A person commits the offense of automated teller machine impairment if they:
    • Remove an automated teller machine.
    • Cause impairment or interruption of use, in whole or in part, of an automated teller machine.

  • Classification of the Offense:

    • Automated teller machine impairment is classified as a Class D felony. This classification indicates that the offense is considered serious and carries significant legal penalties.

Impact

The enactment of SB 511 will primarily affect individuals who engage in actions that disrupt the operation of ATMs. By criminalizing such behavior, the law aims to protect financial institutions and consumers from the consequences of ATM impairment, which can include financial losses and reduced access to banking services.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 18, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • April 2, 2025: Passed by the Senate and transmitted to the House.
  • April 10, 2025: Returned by the Committee with a recommendation to pass.
  • April 14, 2025: Passed by the House and returned to the Senate.
  • April 15, 2025: Ordered enrolled and delivered to the Governor.
  • April 18, 2025: Notification that SB 511 is now Act 757.

Conclusion

SB 511 establishes a legal framework to address the impairment of automated teller machines in Arkansas, classifying such actions as a Class D felony. This legislation aims to protect the functionality of ATMs and ensure the reliability of financial transactions for consumers and institutions alike.

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

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