Bill > HB1765

This bill amends Arkansas law regarding domestic battering in the third degree, primarily focusing on offense classification and prior acts. Specifically, the bill maintains that domestic battering in the third degree is typically a Class A misdemeanor, but elevates the offense to a Class D felony under two key circumstances: first, if the battering is committed against a known or reasonably identifiable pregnant woman, and second, if the person has committed certain related offenses within the past five years. These related offenses include domestic battering in first and second degree, aggravated assault on a family or household member, and equivalent violations in Arkansas or other jurisdictions. The bill also clarifies the legal process for establishing these classification enhancements, requiring the state to prove prior acts beyond a reasonable doubt during its case presentation. This amendment aims to provide stronger legal protections for victims and create more severe consequences for repeat domestic violence offenders.

Justice

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1765&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R