AR HB1829

Expands the definition of "domestic abuse" to include "course of control" (patterns of behavior interfering with free will, such as isolation, deprivation, monitoring movements/finances) and "disturbing the peace" (patterns destroying mental or emotional calm, including stalking, harassment, and impersonation)

Allows courts to permit testimony from a party or child outside the physical presence of the other party during protection order hearings, while preserving cross-examination rights

Requires sheriff's offices to designate at least one officer to serve protection order documents, with mandatory service attempts within 2 hours and detailed logging of all attempts

Expands court relief options to include prohibiting respondents from terminating utilities, canceling insurance, or disposing of petitioner's property, and providing temporary possession of vehicles, financial documents, and identification to petitioners

Assigns the Arkansas Child Abuse/Rape/Domestic Violence Commission responsibility for certifying batterer intervention and domestic violence intervention programs, which must operate under principles of batterer accountability and victim safety