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Bill

HB 1984

TO CREATE A DESIGNATION FOR A REGISTERED SEX OFFENDER ON A DRIVER'S LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Breanne Davis and 4 co-sponsors

Act 984 mandates that Arkansas driver's licenses display a designation for registered sex offenders, enhancing public safety and aiding law enforcement in identification.

Notification that HB1984 is now Act 984
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Bill Summary · HB 1984

Summary of House Bill 1984 (Act 984)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1984, now known as Act 984, aims to create a specific designation for registered sex offenders on driver's licenses and identification cards in the state of Arkansas. The bill seeks to enhance public safety by ensuring that law enforcement officers can easily identify individuals who are registered sex offenders.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important amendments to existing laws regarding sex offender registration and the issuance of driver's licenses:

  1. Disclosure of Status:

    • The bill amends Arkansas Code § 12-12-913(a) to allow the Office of Motor Vehicle of the Department of Finance and Administration access to sex offender registration records for the purpose of issuing driver's licenses or identification cards.

  2. Designation Requirement:

    • Under the new section added to Arkansas Code Title 27, Chapter 16, Subchapter 8, applicants for a driver's license or identification card must disclose whether they are:
      • Registered as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration Act of 1997.
      • Classified as a Level 3 or Level 4 sex offender by the Community Notification Assessment.
    • If an applicant meets these criteria, a designation will be placed on their driver's license or identification card to indicate their status as a registered sex offender.

  3. Proof of Registration:

    • Applicants required to have a designation must provide proof of their registration as a sex offender before the issuance of their driver's license or identification card.

  4. Design and Administration:

    • The Office of Driver Services is authorized to determine the design and placement of the registered sex offender designation on the driver's license or identification card and to promulgate rules for the administration of this section.

Affected Parties

  • Registered Sex Offenders: Individuals classified as Level 3 or Level 4 sex offenders will be directly impacted, as they will be required to have a designation on their driver's licenses or identification cards.
  • Law Enforcement: The bill aims to assist law enforcement officers in identifying registered sex offenders more efficiently.
  • General Public: The legislation is intended to enhance public safety by increasing awareness of registered sex offenders within the community.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: April 3, 2025
  • Passed House: April 9, 2025
  • Passed Senate: April 16, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 16, 2025
  • Notification of Act: April 22, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1984 (Act 984) establishes a clear framework for identifying registered sex offenders through their driver's licenses and identification cards in Arkansas. By mandating a designation for certain offenders, the bill aims to improve public safety and facilitate law enforcement efforts in monitoring sex offenders within the state.

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

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