The bill amends several sections of the Arkansas Code to enhance penalties for individuals involved in the removal, alteration, or defacement of serial numbers or vehicle identification numbers on vehicles, boats, and farming equipment. Key changes include reclassifying offenses from Class A misdemeanors to Class D felonies for knowingly buying, receiving, or possessing items with removed or altered identification marks. The bill also clarifies that individuals are prohibited from defacing or altering these numbers with the intent to defraud, and it allows for the restoration of original serial numbers by owners or repairers.

Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals found guilty of violating these provisions will face increased penalties, including the potential for felony charges. The language throughout the bill has been updated to reflect these changes, emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses and the intent to deter fraudulent activities related to vehicle and equipment identification. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the identification of vehicles and equipment, thereby enhancing law enforcement's ability to combat theft and fraud in this area.