AR HB1665

Creates a civil cause of action allowing owners or operators of commercial property to sue persons who knowingly gain unauthorized access to nonpublic areas and exceed their authority to be there.

Defines "commercial property" to include business properties, agricultural and timber operations with nonpublic areas, and residential property used for business purposes.

Specifically covers employees who enter nonpublic areas without authorization and subsequently capture data, records, or documents; record images or sound; place surveillance devices; participate in organized theft; or substantially interfere with property ownership or possession.

Allows courts to award equitable relief, compensatory damages, attorney's fees, and additional damages up to $5,000 per day of violation when compensatory damages cannot be quantified.

Exempts state agencies, state-funded higher education institutions, law enforcement officers engaged in lawful investigations, and healthcare providers from the cause of action.