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. Additionally, the bill introduces a new offense of promoting prostitution at a business, which holds businesses accountable for facilitating or allowing prostitution activities. The penalties for businesses involved in prostitution violations include civil penalties and potential suspension or revocation of business licenses based on the number of violations.

The bill also revises the fines associated with individual offenses, increasing them significantly for repeat offenders. For instance, fines for promoting prostitution in the first degree will be $2,500 for a first offense, $5,000 for a second, and $10,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Furthermore, the bill mandates that all fines collected be directed to the Human Trafficking Victim Support Fund. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen the legal framework against prostitution and enhance the protection of vulnerable individuals, particularly minors, from exploitation.

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