AR HB1172

Creates enhanced sentencing for crimes where the defendant purposely selected a victim because they are a current or former law enforcement officer, first responder, or family member of either.

Defines "first responder" as firefighters and emergency medical providers, and expands "law enforcement officer" to include prosecuting attorneys, code enforcement officers, and corrections officers.

Establishes enhancement penalties of up to 1 year for Class A misdemeanors, 6 months to 2 years for Class C-D felonies, and 2 to 10 years for Class Y-B felonies.

Prohibits the enhancement if the underlying offense already requires the victim to be a law enforcement officer or first responder as an element of the crime.

Declared effective immediately upon approval by the Governor, without veto period, citing need to protect law enforcement and first responders from targeted criminal activity.