AR SB109

Amends Arkansas Code § 5-13-201(c) to classify battery in the first degree as a Class Y felony when the injured person is a law enforcement officer or correctional facility employee acting in the line of duty.

Defines "employee of a correctional facility" as any person employed by or working under a professional services contract with the Department of Correction or Department of Community Correction.

Maintains existing classification of battery in the first degree as a Class B felony in all other circumstances, except those specified in subdivision (a)(9).

Declares an emergency due to the vulnerability of correctional employees and the need to protect them from workplace violence, making the act effective immediately upon gubernatorial approval, expiration of veto period, or veto override.

Approved by the Governor on March 29, 2019.