The bill amends existing laws concerning computer crimes against minors in Arkansas by raising the age definition of a "child" from seventeen (17) to eighteen (18) years. This change is reflected in multiple sections of the Arkansas Code, including the definition of "child" in Arkansas Code 5-27-601(1), the affirmative defense in Arkansas Code 5-27-602(c) for those accused of distributing or viewing sexually explicit material involving minors, and the determination of age in Arkansas Code 5-27-607.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a person depicted as being under eighteen (18) years of age in any visual representation is indeed under that age. It also clarifies that the trier of fact shall determine the age of the person depicted through various methods, including personal inspection and testimony based on appearance, while removing the option for expert medical testimony. These amendments aim to strengthen protections for minors in the context of computer crimes.

Statutes affected:
SB 328: 5-27-601(1), 5-27-602(c)
Act 361: 5-27-601(1), 5-27-602(c)