The Arkansas Fourth Amendment Protection Act aims to enhance the protection of individuals' electronic data and metadata from unauthorized collection by state entities in collaboration with federal agencies. The bill introduces a new subchapter to the Arkansas Code, defining key terms such as "electronic data," "metadata," and "state entity." It establishes that state entities are prohibited from assisting federal agencies in collecting electronic data or metadata unless the individual has provided informed consent or the collection is conducted under a valid warrant based on probable cause or falls under a legally recognized exception to warrant requirements.
This legislation emphasizes the importance of safeguarding personal information and ensuring that any collection of electronic data adheres to constitutional protections. By clearly outlining the conditions under which state entities may engage with federal agencies regarding electronic data, the bill seeks to uphold the Fourth Amendment rights of Arkansas residents against unwarranted surveillance and data collection practices.