AR HB1317

Expands government fraud laws to include fraud against state supported retirement systems, making it unlawful to knowingly make material false statements to obtain benefits, defeat claims, or wrongfully alter payment amounts

Increases the penalty for defrauding the Arkansas Public Employees' Retirement System, State Police Retirement System, and Arkansas Judicial Retirement System from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony

Authorizes Executive Directors of state supported retirement systems to refer fraud violations for investigation to the Attorney General or the Sixth Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney

Requires fraud penalty notices to be placed on all forms used by persons claiming benefits from state supported retirement systems

Contains an emergency clause making the act effective upon Governor's approval on February 18, 2025, to protect retirement system assets and allow timely criminal referrals