AR HB1159

Members of the General Assembly summoned for jury service within 30 days before a legislative session or during any regular, extraordinary, or fiscal session are entitled to defer service until 30 days after adjournment.

Defines "adjournment sine die" as the General Assembly's adjournment without establishing a date for reconvening.

Persons age 80 or older may voluntarily exempt themselves from or decline to participate in jury service at any time.

Existing language allows courts to excuse or defer jury service for individuals whose health, family circumstances, or other interests would be materially injured by attendance.

Bill addresses separation-of-powers concerns by relieving General Assembly members from choosing between court compliance and constituent obligations.