The bill amends existing laws to enhance protections for victims of human trafficking in Arkansas. It establishes specific rights for these victims, including the mandatory issuance of no-contact orders in cases involving human trafficking offenses. The bill also expands the Comprehensive Criminal Record Sealing Act of 2013, allowing victims of human trafficking to seal their criminal records more easily. This includes provisions for individuals who were victims at the time of their offenses, particularly those related to prostitution, and allows for the sealing of records regardless of when the conviction occurred.

Key amendments include the definition of "human trafficking offense" under the Human Trafficking Act of 2013 and the inclusion of human trafficking offenses as grounds for mandatory no-contact orders. Additionally, the bill clarifies the process for sealing convictions related to prostitution for victims of human trafficking, ensuring that such individuals can seek to have their records sealed if they can demonstrate that their offenses were a direct result of their victimization. The bill aims to provide a more supportive legal framework for victims, facilitating their recovery and reintegration into society.

Statutes affected:
SB 429: 16-85-714(b)
Act 665: 16-85-714(b)