Bill > HJR1009

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to the Arkansas Constitution known as the Arkansas Victims' Bill of Rights, which establishes comprehensive legal protections and procedural rights for victims of misdemeanor and felony offenses in both adult and juvenile justice systems. The resolution defines "victim" broadly to include not just the direct victim, but also legal guardians, family members, and representatives in cases involving minors, incompetent, incapacitated, or deceased individuals. The proposed amendment grants victims sixteen specific rights, including the right to be treated with fairness and respect, to be protected from the defendant, to be informed about court proceedings, to be heard during various stages of legal proceedings, to receive restitution, and to have their safety considered during bail and release determinations. The amendment provides victims with legal standing to assert these rights in court, though it explicitly states that victims do not become parties to criminal proceedings and cannot sue for damages or seek to overturn convictions based on procedural violations. The resolution specifies that the amendment will become effective on January 1, 2027, and will be submitted to Arkansas voters for approval at the next general election, with a ballot title describing it as a constitutional amendment providing rights for victims of misdemeanor and felony offenses.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hjr1009&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R