HB1356
To Make Technical Corrections To Title 12 Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Law Enforcement, Emergency Management, And Military Affairs; And For Other Purposes.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes several technical corrections to existing Arkansas law related to law enforcement, emergency management, and military affairs. It clarifies procedures for disclosing sex offender registration records to parole, post-release supervision, or probation offices. The bill also updates language for the Arkansas Crime Information Center's victim notification system to ensure it provides comprehensive updates on inmate and offender status, conditional release from mental health facilities, and sex offender registration termination applications. Additionally, it amends provisions regarding the eligibility of Department of Corrections employees to carry concealed handguns, detailing requirements for authorization, training, and maintaining lists of authorized individuals. The bill clarifies a definition under the Child Maltreatment Act concerning a parent's failure to protect a child from harm. Finally, it corrects a reference concerning the Office of Criminal Detention Facilities Review Coordinator and explicitly states legislative intent that these are technical changes and do not repeal or substantively alter other acts passed in the same legislative session.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are likely to be victims of criminal offenses and their next of kin, who will receive more comprehensive and timely information through an improved victim notification system. Department of Corrections employees who meet the specified criteria stand to benefit from the clarified authorization to carry concealed handguns, potentially enhancing their ability to perform their duties. Law enforcement agencies and related state departments, such as the Arkansas Crime Information Center and the Department of Public Safety, may benefit from clearer statutory language and updated operational procedures. Sex offenders and individuals under supervision will have their status and information more clearly defined in terms of disclosure to relevant authorities.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill does not appear to introduce direct negative impacts on specific groups or entities as its stated purpose is to make technical corrections. However, any changes to disclosure protocols, even for technical reasons, could indirectly affect individuals whose personal information is subject to these changes. For instance, the clarification of sex offender record disclosure might impact the privacy expectations of those individuals. Similarly, the expanded provisions for Department of Corrections employees carrying concealed handguns, while intended to aid their duties, could raise concerns for those who interact with correctional facilities or facilities housing individuals with mental health issues related to criminal acts, although specific negative impacts are not detailed in the text.