This bill aims to amend existing laws related to child sex trafficking and child exploitation by introducing specific exceptions for certain professionals engaged in bona fide investigations. It adds a new subsection to Arkansas Code 5-27-602, stating that the law concerning the distribution, possession, or viewing of sexually explicit material involving a child does not apply to individuals such as physicians, psychologists, scientists, attorneys, and law enforcement personnel when they are acting within the scope of their professional duties. This provision is intended to facilitate the work of these professionals in addressing child exploitation cases without the fear of legal repercussions.

Additionally, the bill establishes the creation of multidisciplinary teams to enhance responses to child sex trafficking and exploitation cases. Under the new section 12-19-106, the Prosecutor Coordinator is tasked with developing recommendations for these teams, which will include representatives from various law enforcement and advocacy organizations. The teams will focus on improving victim services, coordinating investigations, and identifying service gaps. Furthermore, the Prosecutor Coordinator is required to report the recommendations for these teams to the relevant legislative committees by December 31, 2023.

Statutes affected:
SB 385: 5-27-602