AR HB1578

Amends Arkansas Code § 5-60-123 to establish criminal penalties for obstructing or interfering with emergency medical services personnel or first responders: Class A misdemeanor if using or threatening physical force, Class C misdemeanor if otherwise committed, and Class D felony if done purposely.

Defines "emergency medical services personnel" to include governmental, private, or volunteer emergency medical services personnel, rescue technicians, and emergency medical care providers.

Defines "first responder" as a firefighter or law enforcement officer.

Creates new civil action under Arkansas Code § 16-118-113 allowing persons injured by felony or Class A misdemeanor obstruction of emergency medical personnel to sue the obstructing person for damages.

Permits courts to award compensatory damages, punitive damages, costs, reasonable attorney fees, and expenses to prevailing plaintiffs in civil actions under this section.