AR HB1174

Amends Arkansas Code § 5-26-303 to add a new subsection (6) establishing domestic battering in the first degree when a person causes physical injury to a family or household member by means of a firearm with the purpose of causing physical injury.

Classifies domestic battering in the first degree as a Class B felony by default.

Elevates domestic battering in the first degree to a Class A felony if committed against a pregnant woman or if the offender has committed one or more domestic battering offenses within the preceding five years.

Makes domestic battering in the first degree offense definitions consistent with battery in the first degree statutes by aligning the firearm provision with general battery law.

Approved March 1, 2017.