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Bill

SB 314

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING SEXUAL SOLICITATION; AND TO AMEND THE PENALTIES FOR THE OFFENSE OF SEXUAL SOLICITATION.

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

Arkansas Act 661 modifies sexual solicitation offense definitions and adjusts criminal penalties to strengthen enforcement of existing prostitution-related laws.

Notification that SB314 is now Act 661
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Bill Summary · SB 314

Legislative bill overview

SB 314 modifies Arkansas law regarding sexual solicitation offenses and adjusts the criminal penalties associated with these violations. The bill became Act 661 after passing both chambers and receiving final approval in April 2025. The specific amendments to the solicitation law and penalty structure suggest changes to how the state prosecutes and punishes individuals engaged in sexual solicitation activities.

Why is this important

Sexual solicitation laws directly affect law enforcement priorities, criminal justice outcomes, and public safety efforts. Changes to penalties can influence deterrence levels, sentencing consistency, and resource allocation within the criminal justice system. This legislation reflects legislative priorities regarding sex work regulation and the balance between punishment and other policy approaches.

Potential points of contention

  • Penalty severity: Whether increased or decreased penalties appropriately balance deterrence with rehabilitation, and whether they disproportionately impact certain populations
  • Definition scope: How broadly "sexual solicitation" is defined may affect sex workers, trafficking victims, or those accused of related offenses differently
  • Enforcement disparities: Concerns that amended laws could lead to inconsistent enforcement across jurisdictions or demographic groups, particularly regarding victim versus perpetrator designation

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

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