AR HB1544

Adds Arkansas Code Section 14-54-805 allowing municipalities to adopt a resolution declaring themselves a "Pro-Life City" with a policy to promote and protect the dignity and humanity of all persons from conception until natural death.

Resolution must include findings referencing the Declaration of Independence's right to life, Arkansas Constitution Amendment 68's protection of unborn life, government duty to protect life, and the U.S. Supreme Court's Poelker v. Doe decision (432 U.S. 519, 1977) permitting municipalities to express preference for childbirth over abortion.

Municipalities may promote Pro-Life City status through signage at boundaries, advertising, municipal property displays, utility bill slogans, distribution of decals and materials to businesses and residents, promotion at public events, and public service announcements.

Municipalities may encourage municipal employees, local schools, civic clubs, and places of worship to promote human life; declare pro-life observances such as pro-life days or months; erect monuments or memorials to lives lost to abortion; and establish cemeteries or burial places for the unborn.

Bill was approved on March 17, 2021.