AR HB1252

Repeals Arkansas Code § 16-55-213 and reorganizes general civil venue statutes by moving provisions into § 16-60-101 with clearer language and structure.

Establishes that civil actions (other than specified categories) may be brought in counties where: a substantial part of events giving rise to the claim occurred, the defendant resided, or the plaintiff resided at time of the event or omission.

Requires venue to be proper as to each named plaintiff in multi-plaintiff actions unless plaintiffs assert joint rights, share common questions of law or fact that predominate, and the action is more efficient than separate prosecution.

Mandates severance and transfer of claims to proper venue when venue is improper for any joined plaintiff, unless defendants waive objections or unanimously agree otherwise.

Reorganizes specialized venue provisions for medical injury actions (§ 16-60-105), contract actions against nonresidents (§ 16-60-107), public school district actions (§ 16-60-109), and other specific civil action categories into dedicated code sections.