HB1514 Summary

• Creates new criminal offense of improper use of or altering the state seal under Arkansas Code Title 5, Chapter 54, Subchapter 1, Section 5-54-133

• Applies when a person knowingly uses the state seal or altered version in private, nongovernmental written communication with intent to injure, defraud, harass, intimidate, or coerce another person

• Requires the actor to assume a false identity, pretend to be a state/local agency representative or government officer/employee, or attempt to collect a debt

• Classifies violation as a Class A misdemeanor

• Does not preclude prosecution or civil action under Arkansas Code § 4-88-101 et seq.; bill approved March 23, 2017