HB 1019 Summary

• Repeals existing Arkansas Code Title 18, Chapter 17, Subchapter 9 and replaces it with a new eviction process specifically for residential rental property nonpayment of rent cases.

• Requires landlords to provide tenants with written three-day notice to pay rent or vacate before filing an eviction action in circuit or district court.

• Establishes expedited hearing process with court-ordered hearing no later than 14 days from complaint filing, requiring at least 3 days' notice to tenant before hearing.

• Permits tenants to raise oral objections and payment defenses at the hearing without filing written answers; requires continued rent payments into court registry if continuance is granted.

• Allows prevailing parties in contested cases to recover court costs, and permits reasonable attorney's fees if opposing party acted in bad faith or willfully violated lease terms.