AR HB1055

Adds a new subdivision to Arkansas Code § 9-12-315(a) creating a presumption that appreciation in value of pre-marital property resulting from a spouse's time, effort, or skill during the marriage is marital property.

Amends Arkansas Code § 9-12-315(b)(5) to clarify that appreciation in value of property acquired prior to marriage, by gift, inheritance, life insurance proceeds, retirement accounts, or transfer on death arrangements is subject to the same presumption if the appreciation resulted from a spouse's time, effort, or skill.

Establishes legislative intent to codify the common law doctrine of "active appreciation" from the Arkansas Supreme Court case Layman v. Layman (1987) in response to the Moore v. Moore (2016) decision.

Ensures continuity and reasonable predictability in property division during divorce proceedings by statutorily recognizing that a spouse's contributions can increase the marital portion of pre-marital or inherited property.