The bill amends the Arkansas Code regarding the classification of offenses for violations of orders of protection. Specifically, it maintains that a violation is generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor. However, it introduces a provision that escalates the offense to a Class D felony if the violation occurs within five years of a prior conviction for a similar violation, which now includes violations of equivalent domestic abuse orders of protection from other states or foreign jurisdictions.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that for the violation to be classified as a Class D felony, the order of protection must have been issued following a hearing where the individual received actual notice and had the opportunity to participate. This amendment aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding domestic abuse protections by recognizing violations across jurisdictions and ensuring due process in the issuance of protective orders.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1764 Original - 3-12-2025 03:00 PM: 5-53-134(b)
Old version HB1764 V2 - 4-2-2025 10:24 AM: 5-53-134(b)
HB 1764: 5-53-134(b)
Act 831: 5-53-134(b)