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HB 1844

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE OFFENSE OF FLEEING BY MEANS OF A VEHICLE OR CONVEYANCE; AND TO INCREASE THE PENALTY FOR A PERSON WHO JUMPS FROM A MOVING VEHICLE OR CONVEYANCE WHILE FLEEING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dwight Tosh and 1 co-sponsor

Act 822 increases penalties for fleeing law enforcement in vehicles, classifying offenses as Class C, B, or A felonies based on the circumstances, enhancing public safety.

Notification that HB1844 is now Act 822
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1844

Summary of House Bill 1844 (Act 822)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1844, now known as Act 822, aims to amend existing laws regarding the offense of fleeing by means of a vehicle or conveyance in the state of Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to increase penalties for individuals who jump from a moving vehicle while attempting to evade law enforcement.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces significant changes to the Arkansas Code § 5-54-125 concerning penalties for fleeing:

  1. Classification of Felonies:
    • Class C Felony: If a person flees by vehicle and exits while the vehicle is still moving, continuing to flee on foot, this constitutes a Class C felony under subdivision (d)(2).
    • Class B Felony: If the fleeing occurs under subdivision (d)(3), it is classified as a Class B felony.
    • Class A Felony: If the fleeing is under subdivision (d)(4), it is classified as a Class A felony.

These classifications reflect a tiered approach to penalties based on the circumstances of the fleeing offense.

Affected Parties

The legislation primarily impacts:
- Individuals: Those who engage in fleeing from law enforcement by vehicle and subsequently exit the vehicle while it is in motion.
- Law Enforcement: The bill aims to provide law enforcement with stronger tools to address and penalize dangerous fleeing behavior.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 18, 2025
  • Senate Actions:
    • April 1, 2025: Received from the House and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
    • April 10, 2025: Passed with amendments and returned to the House.
    • April 14, 2025: Senate amendment read and concurred in.
  • Final Actions:
    • April 15, 2025: Correctly enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office.
    • April 17, 2025: Notification that HB 1844 is now Act 822.

Conclusion

House Bill 1844 represents a legislative effort to enhance public safety by imposing stricter penalties on individuals who flee from law enforcement in vehicles. By categorizing the severity of the offense based on the actions taken during the fleeing, the bill aims to deter such behavior and provide law enforcement with clearer guidelines for prosecution.

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

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