This bill mandates that individuals convicted of violations under the Human Trafficking Act of 2013 are required to pay restitution to victims. The new section added to the Arkansas Code outlines specific categories for restitution, including costs for medical and psychological treatment, transportation, temporary housing, and other related expenses. It also includes provisions for expenses incurred by victims and their family members when relocating for safety reasons, ensuring that these costs are verified for the victim's safety and emotional well-being. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a victim's return to their home country or absence from the state does not preclude them from receiving restitution.

Furthermore, the bill amends the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Act by extending the time frame for filing claims from one year to five years after the injury or death that prompted the claim. It allows for exceptions if the board finds good cause for a late filing or if the victim is a minor, in which case the claim can be filed within five years after the victim turns eighteen. This change aims to provide victims with more time to seek reparations and ensure they receive the support they need.

Statutes affected:
SB 430: 16-90-712(a)