AR HJR1009

Proposes a constitutional amendment establishing the "Arkansas Victims' Bill of Rights" to be submitted to voters at the next general election, with an effective date of January 1, 2027

Defines "victim" as any individual directly harmed by a misdemeanor or felony offense, including legal guardians, family members, or court-appointed representatives for victims who are minors, incompetent, incapacitated, or deceased

Grants victims 16 enumerated rights including: fair treatment and protection from intimidation, consideration of victim safety in bail decisions, right to refuse interviews/depositions, reasonable notice of and presence at public proceedings, right to be heard at sentencing and release hearings, full and timely restitution, and notification of defendant's release or escape

Gives victims standing to assert these rights in court and requires courts to promptly rule on victim requests, while explicitly stating defendants cannot assert victim rights and victims do not have party status in criminal proceedings

Prohibits lawsuits against the state for damages based on rights violations, though individuals may sue to compel public officials to perform required duties; violations cannot be used to overturn convictions