AR HB1024

Expands the definition of "person" in Arkansas Criminal Code §§ 5-10-101 through 5-10-105 and 5-13-210 to include an unborn child in utero at any stage of development.

Creates new offense of "threatening to introduce controlled substance into body of pregnant woman" under Arkansas Code § 5-13-212, making it illegal to knowingly make a statement that a reasonable person would believe indicates intent to introduce Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substances into one's own body or another pregnant person's body.

Classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor.

Allows law enforcement officers to take a person into custody without release before first court appearance if they have probable cause to believe the person committed the offense, unless the officer believes the person can no longer introduce Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substances.

Provides exception to the offense if the controlled substance was prescribed by a state-licensed practitioner for a legitimate medical purpose.