The proposed bill aims to amend existing laws regarding promoting prostitution offenses in Arkansas by enhancing penalties for such offenses across the first, second, and third degrees. Key changes include reclassifying the severity of offenses, with promoting prostitution in the first degree becoming a Class C felony for first offenses and a Class B felony for subsequent offenses. Similarly, promoting prostitution in the second degree will be classified as a Class D felony for first offenses and a Class C felony for subsequent offenses. The bill also introduces increased fines for violations, with first offenses incurring a $2,500 fine, second offenses $5,000, and third or subsequent offenses $10,000. Additionally, the bill specifies that fines will be directed to the Human Trafficking Victim Support Fund.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new offense of promoting prostitution at a business, defining civil liabilities for businesses involved in prostitution violations. Businesses found to permit or facilitate prostitution will face escalating penalties, including license suspensions and significant civil fines, which can reach up to $100,000 for repeated violations. The bill emphasizes the responsibility of business owners to prevent prostitution-related activities and outlines the consequences for failing to do so. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen the legal framework against prostitution and enhance protections for victims of human trafficking.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB427 V2 - 4-1-2025 10:20 AM: 5-70-104, 5-70-106, 04-01-2025, 5-70-105
Old version SB427 Original - 3-11-2025 03:35 PM: 5-70-104, 5-70-105, 5-70-106
SB 427: 5-70-104, 5-70-105, 5-70-106
Act 663: 5-70-104, 5-70-106, 04-01-2025, 5-70-105