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HB 1581

TO ADD TRAFFICKING OF PERSONS TO THE LIST OF OFFENSES INCLUDED IN THE DEFINITION OF SEX OFFENSE FOR RIGHTS OF VICTIMS OF A CRIME.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sonia Barker and 17 co-sponsors

HB 1581 expands "sex offense" to include trafficking and grooming minors, ensuring victims gain crucial rights and protections previously unavailable to them.

Notification that HB1581 is now Act 316
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Bill Summary · HB 1581

Summary of House Bill 1581 (HB 1581)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1581 (HB 1581) aims to enhance the legal protections for victims of crime by expanding the definition of "sex offense" to include trafficking of persons and grooming a minor for future sex trafficking. This legislative change is intended to ensure that victims of these serious offenses receive the same rights and protections as victims of other recognized sex offenses.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Arkansas Code § 16-90-1101(6) to include the following offenses in the definition of "sex offense":

  • Trafficking of persons (Arkansas Code § 5-18-103)
  • Grooming a minor for future sex trafficking (Arkansas Code § 5-18-106)

These additions will allow victims of these crimes to access specific rights and services that are afforded to victims of other sex offenses.

Affected Parties

The primary beneficiaries of this bill are:

  • Victims of trafficking and grooming offenses: They will gain access to rights and protections that were previously unavailable to them under the existing definition of sex offenses.
  • Law enforcement and judicial systems: The inclusion of these offenses may lead to increased awareness and resources allocated to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable populations, particularly minors.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 25, 2025: HB 1581 was filed and introduced in the House.
  • March 4, 2025: The bill was returned by the Judiciary Committee with a recommendation to pass.
  • March 5, 2025: The bill passed the House and was transmitted to the Senate.
  • March 11, 2025: The Senate passed the bill and returned it to the House.
  • March 12, 2025: The bill was correctly enrolled and ordered transmitted to the Governor's Office.
  • March 18, 2025: Notification was issued that HB 1581 is now Act 316.

Conclusion

HB 1581 represents a significant step forward in the protection of victims of trafficking and grooming offenses in Arkansas. By formally recognizing these crimes within the legal framework of sex offenses, the bill enhances the rights and support available to victims, thereby contributing to broader efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals in the state.

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

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