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Bill

HB 1603

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS BY A CRIMINAL DEFENDANT IN CIRCUIT COURT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jimmy Gazaway and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1603 mandates that criminal defendants' payments first cover court costs, then restitution, and finally fines, ensuring a clear payment order in Arkansas courts.

Notification that HB1603 is now Act 365
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Bill Summary · HB 1603

Summary of House Bill 1603 (HB 1603)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1603 (HB 1603) aims to amend existing laws regarding the allocation of installment payments made by criminal defendants in circuit court. The primary goal of the bill is to clarify the order in which payments are applied to court costs, restitution, and fines, ensuring a more structured approach to the collection of these payments.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important changes to Arkansas Code § 16-13-226, which governs installment payments by criminal defendants:

  1. Payment Allocation Order:

    • Payments made by a criminal defendant will first be applied to court costs until they are fully paid.
    • Any remaining payments will then be allocated to restitution.
    • After restitution is satisfied, payments will be directed towards any fines as specified under § 5-4-208.

  2. Full Payment Requirement:

    • Once all court costs, restitution, and fines are fully paid, any additional installment payments will be allocated to other amounts due as ordered by the circuit court.

  3. Local Legislation Continuity:

    • Municipal or county governing bodies that had previously adopted alternative methods for installment payment allocation before January 1, 2017, will retain those methods until they are officially repealed.

Affected Parties

This bill primarily affects:
- Criminal defendants who are required to make installment payments in circuit court.
- Circuit courts that handle these payments and enforce the collection of court costs, restitution, and fines.
- Municipal and county governing bodies that may have their own payment allocation methods.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 26, 2025
  • Passed: March 17, 2025 (after being read and approved in both the House and Senate)
  • Enrolled: March 18, 2025
  • Notification of Act: March 20, 2025 (HB 1603 is now Act 365)

Conclusion

HB 1603 represents a significant update to the laws governing installment payments by criminal defendants in Arkansas. By establishing a clear hierarchy for payment allocation, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency of the court system and ensure that obligations are met in a structured manner. The bill is now enacted as Act 365, reflecting its passage through the legislative process.

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

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