AR HB1914

Establishes that defendants charged with capital offenses may petition the trial court to prove they have a serious mental illness as a bar to death penalty sentencing.

Defines "serious mental illness" as one or more of the following diagnosed conditions: schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, delusional disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or disorders resulting from traumatic brain injury.

Requires the trial court to appoint two licensed psychiatrists or psychologists to evaluate the defendant and provide written reports on whether the defendant has a serious mental illness.

Mandates the trial court conduct a hearing where the defendant must prove by preponderance of the evidence that they have a serious mental illness, with the court issuing written findings within 30 days.

Prohibits the state from seeking the death penalty if the court determines the defendant has a serious mental illness, but allows prosecution to seek life imprisonment without parole instead.