reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 4 - BIRTHS AND ADOPTIONS (§§ 20-18-401 — 20-18-410) › Section 20-18-403 - Judicial procedure to register birth

(a)
If the State Registrar of Vital Records refuses to file a certificate of birth under §
20-18-401
or §
20-18-402
, a petition may be filed with a court of competent jurisdiction for an order establishing a record of the date and place of the birth and the parentage of the person whose birth is to be registered.
(b)
The petition shall be made on a form prescribed and furnished or approved by the state registrar and shall allege:
(1)
That the person for whom a delayed certificate of birth is sought was born in this state;
(2)
That no certificate of birth of the person can be found in the Division of Vital Records;
(3)
That diligent efforts by the petitioner have failed to obtain the evidence required in accordance with §
20-18-401
or §
20-18-402
and rules adopted pursuant to §
20-18-401
or §
20-18-402
;
(4)
That the state registrar has refused to file a certificate of birth; and
(5)
Such other allegations as may be required.
(c)
The petition shall be accompanied by a statement of the state registrar made in accordance with §
20-18-401
or §
20-18-402
and all documentary evidence which was submitted to the state registrar in support of the registration.
(d)
The court shall fix a time and place for hearing the petition and shall give the state registrar ten (10) days' notice of the hearing. The state registrar or his or her authorized representative may appear and testify in the proceeding.
(e)
If the court finds from the evidence presented that the person for whom a certificate of birth is sought was born in the state, the court shall make findings as to the place and date of birth, parentage, and other findings as the case may require and shall issue an order on a form prescribed and furnished or approved by the state registrar to establish a court-ordered certificate of birth. This order shall include the birth data to be registered, a description of the evidence presented, and the date of the court's action.
(f)
The clerk of court shall forward each order to the state registrar not later than the tenth day of the calendar month following the month in which it was entered. The order shall be registered by the state registrar and shall constitute the court-ordered certificate of birth.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1969, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1981, No. 120, § 10; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-510; Acts 1995, No. 1254, § 18.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 4 - BIRTHS AND ADOPTIONS (§§ 20-18-401 — 20-18-410) › Section 20-18-404 - Infants of unknown parentage

(a)
Whoever assumes the custody of a live-born infant of unknown parentage shall report on a form and in a manner prescribed by the State Registrar of Vital Records within ten (10) days to the Division of Vital Records the following information:
(1)
The date and city or county, or both, of finding;
(2)
Sex and approximate birth date of child;
(3)
Name and address of the person or institution with whom the child has been placed for care;
(4)
Name given to the child by the custodian of the child; and
(5)
Other data required by the state registrar.
(b)
The place where the child was found shall be entered as the place of birth.
(c)
A report registered under this section shall constitute the certificate of birth for the child.
(d)
If the child is identified and a certificate of birth is found or obtained, the report registered under this section shall be placed in a special file and shall not be subject to inspection except upon order of a court of competent jurisdiction or as provided by rule.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1970, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1981, No. 120, § 8; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-508; Acts 1995, No. 1254, § 19.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 4 - BIRTHS AND ADOPTIONS (§§ 20-18-401 — 20-18-410) › Section 20-18-407 - Social Security account information of parents

(a)
Social Security account information of parents of a child born within this state shall be furnished to the Division of Vital Records of the Department of Health at the time of filing the certificate of birth, but such information shall not appear on the certificate.
(b)
The Division of Vital Records shall make available the records of parent name and Social Security number to the Office of Child Support Enforcement of the Revenue Division of the Department of Finance and Administration for its use in the establishment of paternity or the enforcement of child support orders through electronic transfer mechanism. Such a disclosure shall constitute an exception to the prohibitions within §
20-18-304
.
(c)
Information obtained by the office pursuant to this section may be used in an action or proceeding before any court, administrative tribunal, or other body for the purpose of establishing a child support obligation, collecting child support, or locating individuals owing the obligation.
Acts 1989, No. 805, § 1; 1991, No. 474, § 1; 1995, No. 1184, § 32.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 4 - BIRTHS AND ADOPTIONS (§§ 20-18-401 — 20-18-410) › Section 20-18-408 - Notice to parents regarding affidavits of paternity

Upon the birth of a child to a woman who was unmarried at the time of either conception or birth or between conception and birth, the person responsible under §
20-18-401
for providing birth registration information shall:
(1)
Provide an opportunity for the child's mother and natural father to complete an affidavit acknowledging paternity, to include such information as is required by the court to establish paternity and establish a child support obligation and to be filed with the Division of Vital Records;
(2)
Provide written information, furnished by the Office of Child Support Enforcement, to the child's mother and natural father explaining the implications of signing an affidavit of paternity and parental rights and responsibilities; and
(3)
Provide written information, furnished by the office, to the child's mother regarding the benefits of having her child's paternity established and the availability of paternity establishment services, including a request for child support enforcement services.
Acts 1993, No. 928, § 2; 1995, No. 1254, § 22.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 4 - BIRTHS AND ADOPTIONS (§§ 20-18-401 — 20-18-410) › Section 20-18-409 - Disclosure of affidavits

(a)
The hospital, birthing center, certified nurse practitioner, or licensed midwife shall make available to the Office of Child Support Enforcement of the Revenue Division of the Department of Finance and Administration completed affidavits of paternity. Such a disclosure shall constitute an exception to the general prohibition under §
20-18-304
.
(b)
Information obtained by the office pursuant to this section may be used in an action or proceeding before any court, administrative tribunal, or other body for the purpose of establishing a child support obligation or collecting the child support obligation.
(c)
(1)
(A)
The Division of Children and Family Services of the Department of Human Services may obtain a certified copy of a completed affidavit of paternity from the Division of Vital Records of the Department of Health.
(B)
The disclosure of the affidavit is exempted under §
20-18-304
.
(2)
Information obtained by the Division of Children and Family Services of the Department of Human Services under subdivision (c)(1)(A) of this section may be used in an action before a circuit court for the purpose of identifying a parent in a dependency-neglect proceeding under §
9-27-303
.
Amended by Act 2015, No. 546,§ 2, eff. 7/22/2015.
Acts 1993, No. 928, § 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 4 - BIRTHS AND ADOPTIONS (§§ 20-18-401 — 20-18-410) › Section 20-18-410 - Certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth - Definitions

(a)
As used in this section:
(1)
"Certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth" means a birth certificate issued to record the birth of a stillborn child; and
(2)
"Stillbirth" means an unintended, intrauterine fetal death occurring in this state after a gestational age of not less than twelve (12) completed weeks.
(b)
A person who is required to file a fetal death certificate under §
20-18-603
shall advise the parent or parents of a stillborn child:
(1)
That a parent may but is not required to request the preparation of a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth;
(2)
That a parent may obtain a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth by contacting the Division of Vital Records to request the certificate and paying the required fee; and
(3)
Regarding the way in which a parent may contact the division to request the certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth.
(c)
(1)
If a parent requests that a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth be prepared, the parent may provide a name for a stillborn child to be included on the certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth.
(2)
If the requesting parent does not wish to provide a name, the division shall fill in the certificate with the name "baby boy" or "baby girl" and the last name of the requesting parent.
(3)
The name of the stillborn child provided on or later added by amendment to the certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth shall be the same name as appears on the original or amended fetal death certificate.
(d)
A certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth shall include the state file number of the corresponding fetal death certificate.
(e)
The division shall prescribe the form and content of a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth and shall specify the information necessary to prepare the certificate.
(f)
The division shall not use a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth to calculate live birth statistics.
(g)
If a fetal death certificate was issued for a stillbirth, a parent may request that the division issue a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth without regard to the date on which the fetal death certificate was issued.
(h)
The division shall prescribe the form and content of a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth.
(i)
A parent may request the division to prepare and issue a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth without regard to whether the fetal death occurred on or before July 31, 2007.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 168,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 2007, No. 509, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 5 - MARRIAGES, ANNULMENTS, AND DIVORCES (§§ 20-18-501 — 20-18-502) › Section 20-18-501 - Marriage registration

(a)
A record of each marriage performed in this state shall be filed with the Division of Vital Records and shall be registered if it has been completed and filed in accordance with this section.
(b)
The official who issues the marriage license shall prepare the record on the form prescribed by the State Registrar of Vital Records upon the basis of information obtained from one (1) of the parties to be married.
(c)
Every person who performs a marriage shall certify the fact of marriage and return the record to the official who issued the license within fifteen (15) days after the ceremony.
(d)
Every official issuing marriage licenses shall complete and forward to the division on or before the thirtieth day of each calendar month the records of marriages filed with him or her during the preceding calendar month.
(e)
A marriage record not filed within the time prescribed by statute may be registered in accordance with rules promulgated by the State Board of Health.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1974, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1981, No. 120, § 18; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-518; Acts 1995, No. 1254, § 23.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 5 - MARRIAGES, ANNULMENTS, AND DIVORCES (§§ 20-18-501 — 20-18-502) › Section 20-18-502 - Divorce or annulment registration

(a)
(1)
For each divorce or annulment granted by any court in this state, a record shall be filed by the clerk of court with the Division of Vital Records and shall be registered if it has been completed and filed in accordance with this section.
(2)
The record shall be prepared on a form prescribed and furnished by the State Registrar of Vital Records by the petitioner or his or her legal representative and shall be presented to the clerk of court with the petition.
(3)
In all cases, the completed record shall be a prerequisite to the entry of the decree.
(b)
The clerk of court shall complete and forward to the division on or before the thirtieth day of each calendar month the records of each divorce or annulment filed with him or her during the preceding calendar month.
Acts 1981, No. 120, § 19; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-519; Acts 1995, No. 1254, § 24; 1995, No. 1256, § 20; 1995 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 13, § 4.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 6 - DEATHS (§§ 20-18-601 — 20-18-604) › Section 20-18-602 - Delayed registration

(a)
When a death occurring in this state has not been registered within the time period prescribed by §
20-18-601
, a certificate may be filed in accordance with rules promulgated by the State Board of Health. The certificates shall be registered subject to such evidentiary requirements as the board shall by rule prescribe to substantiate the alleged facts of death.
(b)
When an applicant does not submit the minimum documentation required by rule for delayed registration or when the State Registrar of Vital Records has cause to question the validity or adequacy of the applicant's sworn statement or the documentary evidence, and if the deficiencies are not corrected, the state registrar shall not register the delayed certificate of death and shall advise the applicant of the reasons for this action and further advise the applicant of his or her right to appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction.
(c)
Certificates of death registered one (1) year or more after the date of death shall be marked "DELAYED" and shall show on their face the date of the delayed registration.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1976, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1981, No. 120, § 14; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-514; Acts 1995, No. 1254, § 26.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 6 - DEATHS (§§ 20-18-601 — 20-18-604) › Section 20-18-604 - Final disposition of dead body or fetus

(a)
The funeral director or the person acting as the funeral director who first assumes custody of a dead body shall obtain authorization for final disposition of the dead body as provided in the rules.
(b)
Prior to final disposition of a dead fetus, irrespective of the duration of pregnancy, the funeral director, the person in charge of the institution, or other person assuming responsibility for final disposition of the fetus shall obtain from the parents authorization for final disposition on a form prescribed by the State Registrar of Vital Records.
(c)
With the consent of the physician or State Medical Examiner or county coroner, who is to certify the cause of death, a dead body may be moved from the place of death for the purpose of being prepared for final disposition.
(d)
An authorization for final disposition issued under the law of another state which accompanies a dead body or fetus brought into this state shall be authority for final disposition of the dead body or fetus in this state.
(e)
Authorization for disinterment and reinterment shall be required prior to disinterment of a dead body or fetus. The authorization shall be issued by the state registrar to a licensed funeral director or person acting as such upon proper application.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1978, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1981, No. 120, § 17; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-517; Acts 1989, No. 396, § 4; 1995, No. 1254, § 28.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 7 - PUTATIVE FATHER REGISTRY (§§ 20-18-701 — 20-18-705) › Section 20-18-701 - Definitions

As used in this subchapter:
(1)
"Child" means a person under eighteen (18) years of age for whom paternity has not been established;
(2)
"Court" means a court in this state or another state or territory of the United States of competent subject matter jurisdiction;
(3)
[Repealed.]
(4)
"Father" means the biological male parent of a child;
(5)
"Putative father" means any man not legally presumed or adjudicated to be the biological father of a child but who claims or is alleged to be the father of the child;
(6)
"Registrant" means a person who has registered pursuant to this subchapter and who is claiming to be the father of a child;
(7)
"Registry" means the Putative Father Registry; and
(8)
"Rules" means rules promulgated by the Department of Health for the purpose of implementing this subchapter.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1979, eff. 7/24/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 389,§ 34, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1989, No. 496, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 7 - PUTATIVE FATHER REGISTRY (§§ 20-18-701 — 20-18-705) › Section 20-18-702 - Creation

(a)
(1)
There is established in the Department of Health a Putative Father Registry.
(2)
The purpose of the registry is to entitle putative fathers to notice of legal proceedings pertaining to the child for whom the putative father has registered.
(3)
A putative father shall establish a significant custodial, personal, or financial relationship with the child before the putative father's rights attach.
(b)
(1)
Upon receipt of a written statement signed and acknowledged by the registrant before a notary public, the registry shall record the following information:
(A)
The name, address, and Social Security number of any person who claims to be the father of a child for whom paternity is not presumed or has not been established by a court;
(B)
The name, last known address, and Social Security number, if known, of the mother of the child;
(C)
The name of the child, if born, and the location and date of birth, if known; and
(D)
The date and time of receipt, which the department shall note on the written statement signed and acknowledged by the registrant.
(2)
(A)
The department shall provide a form to be used by the registrant.
(B)
There shall be no fee required of the registrant to file the affidavit.
(c)
The registry may accept the information before the birth of the child or at any time before the filing of a petition for adoption.
(d)
The registry shall forward a copy of the information to the mother as notification that the person has registered with the registry.
(e)
The registry shall maintain cross-reference indices by the name of the mother and the name of the child, if known.
Acts 1989, No. 496, § 2; 1999, No. 1054, § 1; 2005, No. 200, §§ 1, 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 7 - PUTATIVE FATHER REGISTRY (§§ 20-18-701 — 20-18-705) › Section 20-18-703 - Revocation of information

(a)
Information supplied to the Putative Father Registry may be revoked by a written statement, signed and acknowledged by the registrant before a notary public.
(b)
The statement shall include a declaration that, to the best of the registrant's knowledge and belief, he is not the father of the named child or that a court has adjudicated paternity and someone other than the registrant has been determined to be the father of the child.
(c)
Revocation shall be effective only after the birth of the child.
Acts 1989, No. 496, § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 7 - PUTATIVE FATHER REGISTRY (§§ 20-18-701 — 20-18-705) › Section 20-18-704 - Furnishing of information

(a)
The Department of Health shall make available to attorneys the telephone number of the Putative Father Registry for purposes of inquiry as to a putative father's name and address contained in the registry.
(b)
Information contained in the registry shall be admissible in any court proceeding in any court in this state.
(c)
Upon receipt of a written request by the registrant, the mother, or the child, or pursuant to any request of the department, the Office of Child Support Enforcement, or of a prosecuting attorney or an attorney acting on behalf of his or her client in litigation involving the determination of paternity or support for the child or an adoption of the child, the department shall furnish a certified copy of the registry information for a named putative father, natural mother, or child.
(d)
Upon request, the department shall furnish through electronic data exchange or otherwise a copy of the registry to the office for use in establishing paternity and support obligations.
(e)
Otherwise, registry information shall be considered confidential and may not be disclosed. Registry information shall not be subject to the Freedom of Information Act of 1967, §
25-19-101
et seq.
Acts 1989, No. 496, § 4; 1995, No. 1184, § 33.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 18 - VITAL STATISTICS ACT (§§ 20-18-101 — 20-18-705) › Subchapter 7 - PUTATIVE FATHER REGISTRY (§§ 20-18-701 — 20-18-705) › Section 20-18-705 - Penalty

Any person who knowingly registers as a putative father pursuant to this subchapter when the registrant knows that he is not the biological father of the child shall upon conviction be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1989, No. 496, § 5.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-104) › Section 20-19-101 - Findings - Humane societies

(a)
The General Assembly finds and declares that humane societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals organized under the laws of this state now or hereinafter in effect are public organizations necessary to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizenry of this state and are discharging a government function.
(b)
The General Assembly finds and declares that the appropriation of public funds for the use of humane societies in the maintenance and operation of shelters for stray, diseased, neglected, and other animals and in the protection of the public from disease among such animals is a public use of the funds in the discharge of a government function.
Acts 1939, No. 44, §§ 1, 2; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 78-101, 78-102.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-104) › Section 20-19-102 - Injuries to domesticated animals by dogs - Definition

(a)
(1)
As used in this section, "domesticated animals" includes, but is not limited to, sheep, goats, cattle, swine, and poultry.
(2)
A person owning or having in possession or under control a dog is liable for damages to the owner or owners of a domesticated animal killed or injured by the dog for the full value of the domesticated animal killed or injured.
(b)
(1)
A person engaged in raising domesticated animals or owning domesticated animals who sustains a loss or damage to any of his or her domesticated animals by a dog has a right of action against the owner, possessor, or controller of the dog.
(2)
A person knowing that a dog has killed or is about to catch, injure, or kill a domesticated animal has the right to kill the dog, without liability to the owner of the dog.
(c)
The person sustaining loss or damage under subsection (b) of this section and desiring remuneration may go before the circuit court or district court having jurisdiction where the loss or damage occurred and allege the loss or damage sustained, the value of the loss or damage, and the identity of the dog and the dog's owner, possessor, or controller by filing a complaint with the circuit court or district court having jurisdiction as permitted by the Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure, which under the rules may issue a summons to the defendant to appear in the circuit court or district court having jurisdiction and answer the allegations.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 299,§ 4, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1887, No. 136, §§ 1-4, p. 235; 1917, No. 155, §§ 1, 2; C. & M. Dig., §§ 339-343; Pope's Dig., §§ 354-358; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 78-206 -- 78-210; Acts 1987, No. 393, §§ 1, 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-104) › Section 20-19-103 - Sterilization of impounded dogs and cats

(a)
It shall be unlawful for any pound, shelter, humane organization, or animal rescue group to release any dog or cat which has not been sterilized to a new owner except as provided in subsection (b) of this section.
(b)
(1)
In any county in the state, it shall be unlawful for any pound, shelter, humane organization, or animal rescue group to release to a new owner any dog or cat over three (3) months of age which has not been sterilized except as provided in subdivision (b)(2) of this section.
(2)
(A)
An animal which in the opinion of a veterinarian licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Arkansas is medically compromised to the extent that it cannot withstand immediate sterilization may be temporarily released pursuant to a foster care agreement until such time as it can safely be sterilized or until two (2) veterinarians licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Arkansas certify that it is unlikely that the animal will ever recover to the extent that it can be safely sterilized.
(B)
(i)
At that time, ownership of the animal may be transferred to an owner who certifies that the animal will not be used for breeding.
(ii)
An owner who violates the agreement shall be subject to the penalties set forth in subsection (c) of this section.
(c)
Violations of this section are declared to be misdemeanors punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500).
Acts 1981, No. 869, §§ 1, 2; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 78-214, 78-215; Acts 1995, No. 839, § 1; 1999, No. 488, § 2; 2011, No. 994, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-104) › Section 20-19-104 - Voluntary certification program

(a)
The Department of Health shall establish a voluntary certification program for animal control officers, animal shelters, and other humane society counterparts.
(b)
The certification shall be based upon courses recommended by the National Animal Care and Control Association or its equivalent.
(c)
Certification of animal shelters shall be based upon compliance with shelter standards published by the Humane Society of the United States.
(d)
Training shall be administered by the Arkansas State Animal Control Association in cooperation with the department and utilizing qualified experts, including, but not limited to, licensed veterinarians and persons holding professional registrations or certifications in the appropriate areas of expertise.
Acts 2001, No. 1663, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-301 - Title

This subchapter shall be known as the "Rabies Control Act".
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2401.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-302 - Definitions

As used in this subchapter:
(1)
"Animal" means any animal other than dogs or cats that may be affected by rabies;
(2)
"Cats" means any domestic feline animal, species Felis catus;
(3)
"Dogs" means any domestic canine animal, species Canis lupus familiaris;
(4)
"Has been bitten" means the skin has been penetrated by an animal's teeth and saliva has contacted a break or abrasion of the skin;
(5)
"Owner" means any person who:
(A)
Has a right of property in a dog, cat, or other animal;
(B)
Keeps, harbors, cares for, or acts as the custodian of a dog, cat, or other animal; or
(C)
Knowingly permits a dog, cat, or other animal to remain on or about any premises occupied by him or her; and
(6)
"Vaccination against rabies" means the injection, subcutaneously or otherwise, of antirabic vaccine, as approved by the United States Department of Agriculture or the State Board of Health and administered by a licensed veterinarian, veterinary technician, veterinary technologist, veterinary technician specialist, or agent of the Department of Health.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 161,§ 5, eff. 8/1/2023.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 2; 1975, No. 725, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2402; Acts 2009, No. 159, § 2; 2011, No. 93, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-303 - Power of political subdivisions not limited - Applicability

(a)
This subchapter does not limit in any manner the power of any municipality or political subdivision to prohibit dogs, cats, or other animals from running at large whether or not they have been vaccinated against rabies as provided in this subchapter.
(b)
This subchapter does not limit in any manner the power of any municipality or other political subdivision to further control and regulate dogs, cats, or other animals in such municipality or political subdivision.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 7; 1975, No. 725, § 5; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2407; Acts 2009, No. 159, § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-304 - Penalties

(a)
(1)
A person shall be guilty of a violation for:
(A)
Violating or aiding in or abetting the violation of any provision of this subchapter;
(B)
Making a misrepresentation in regard to any matter prescribed by this subchapter;
(C)
Resisting, obstructing, or impeding any authorized officer in enforcing this subchapter; or
(D)
Refusing to produce for inoculation against rabies any dog or cat in his or her possession.
(2)
Upon conviction, the person shall be fined not less than five dollars ($5.00) nor more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for each offense.
(b)
Any dog or cat termed a stray that is not vaccinated against rabies is subject to destruction.
(c)
(1)
Any officers failing, refusing, or neglecting to carry out the provisions of this subchapter shall be guilty of a violation.
(2)
Upon conviction, the officer shall be fined in any sum not less than five dollars ($5.00) nor more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for each offense.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, §§ 5, 9; 1975, No. 725, § 4; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 82-2405, 82-2409; Acts 2005, No. 1994, § 115.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-305 - Vaccination for dogs, cats, and other animals required

All dogs, cats, and other animals shall be vaccinated against rabies as required by the State Board of Health.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 2; 1975, No. 725, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2402; Acts 2009, No. 159, § 4; 2011, No. 93, § 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-306 - Illegal acts when person bitten

(a)
It is unlawful for any person bitten, the family, treating physician, or veterinarian that has knowledge of a person bitten by a dog, cat, or other animal to refuse to notify the health authorities promptly.
(b)
It is unlawful for the owner of the dog, cat, or other animal to sell, give away, transfer, transport to another area, or otherwise dispose of the dog, cat, or other animal that is known to have bitten a person until it is released by the health authorities.
(c)
(1)
It is unlawful for the owner of the dog, cat, or other animal to refuse or fail to comply with the written or printed instructions of the health authorities in any particular case.
(2)
(A)
The written instructions shall be delivered in person by health authorities or their authorized agent.
(B)
If instructions cannot be delivered in person, the instructions shall be mailed by regular mail, postage prepaid, and addressed to the owner of the dog, cat, or other animal.
(C)
The affidavit or testimony of the health authorities or their authorized agent, who delivered or mailed such instructions, shall be prima facie evidence of the receipt of the instructions by the owner of the dog, cat, or other animal.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 3; 1975, No. 725, § 2; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2403.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-307 - Confinement of animal when person bitten

(a)
(1)
(A)
Whenever the health authorities, county sheriff's office, or municipal police officers in cooperation with health authorities receive information that any person has been bitten by a dog, cat, or other animal that has not received a current vaccination against rabies or it is unknown if the dog, cat, or other animal has received a vaccination against rabies, these local public officials acting in cooperation shall have the dog or other animal confined and observed.
(B)
If the dog, cat, or other animal has received a current vaccination against rabies and the owner provides proof of the current vaccination, the owner may confine and observe the dog, cat, or other animal.
(2)
If there is no local facility available for confining the dog, cat, or other animal that has not received a current vaccination against rabies or it is unknown if the dog, cat, or other animal has received a vaccination against rabies, it shall be the owner's responsibility to make satisfactory arrangements or to prepare a facility for the purpose of confinement.
(b)
(1)
The offending dog or cat shall be confined for a period of ten (10) days by a veterinarian or owner or public pound.
(2)
(A)
All other species of animals are to be confined and observed for rabies in the same manner, except the time element will vary so as to compensate for the difference in the incubation period of the disease.
(B)
This adjusted time element is to be determined by consultation with the Department of Health.
(C)
If there is no known incubation period, the animal may be euthanized and tested at the discretion of the department.
(3)
The veterinarian, owner, or public pound management personnel shall notify the local public health authorities of the disposition of the dog or animal at the termination of the confinement.
(c)
(1)
Any confinement and observation expense incurred in the handling of any dog, cat, or other animal under this subchapter shall be borne by the owner.
(2)
If the dog, cat, or other animal is a stray and has no owner, the confinement and observation expense shall be borne by the person bitten or, if a minor, by the head of the family.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 522,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 3; 1975, No. 725, § 2; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2403; Acts 2009, No. 159, § 5.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-308 - Shipment to laboratory of head of animal suspected of being rabid

Any person causing the death of an animal, either wild or domesticated, suspected of being rabid shall cause the head of the animal to be presented to a county health unit of the county in which the animal was killed.
Acts 1953, No. 238, § 1; Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 6; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 82-610, 82-2406; Acts 2005, No. 1994, § 116; 2009, No. 159, § 6.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-309 - Area quarantine

(a)
(1)
The Secretary of the Department of Health shall place certain areas under a rabies quarantine upon request of proper local officials.
(2)
In serious situations, the secretary may place the area under quarantine without waiting for a local request.
(b)
The occurrence of three (3) or more positive rabies cases in animals shall be sufficient basis for placing an area under quarantine.
(c)
The positive rabies cases shall be laboratory-confirmed by the public health laboratory or any other laboratory acceptable to or approved by the secretary.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 5014, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 4; 1975, No. 725, § 3; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2404.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-310 - Authority to impose additional measures

Whenever the proper officials or a government unit are convinced that the situation is conducive to the spread of rabies, additional measures may be imposed by the government unit if deemed necessary to prevent the spread of rabies among dogs and other animals. The government unit involved may require:
(1)
That all dogs, cats, or other animals in the locality be kept:
(A)
Confined within an enclosure; or
(B)
Muzzled and restrained by a leash composed of chain, wire, rope, or cable;
(2)
That all owners or keepers of dogs, cats, or other animals take such prophylactic measures as may be required and necessary to prevent the spread of rabies; or
(3)
That other measures, in addition to annual vaccination against rabies, that may be necessary to control the spread of rabies in dogs, cats, and other animals be carried out.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 4; 1975, No. 725, § 3; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2404.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-311 - Administration by Secretary of the Department of Health

The Secretary of the Department of Health or his or her official representative shall have the responsibility for carrying out the provisions of this subchapter.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 5015, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 2; 1975, No. 725, § 1; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2402.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 3 - RABIES CONTROL ACT (§§ 20-19-301 — 20-19-312) › Section 20-19-312 - State Board of Health's authority to regulate

(a)
The State Board of Health shall adopt rules necessary to carry out this subchapter, with subsequent amendments as needed.
(b)
The Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission may adopt rules as are necessary pertaining to dogs and cats transported or moved into Arkansas for any purpose.
Acts 1968 (1st Ex. Sess.), No. 11, § 8; A.S.A. 1947, § 82-2408; Acts 2011, No. 93, § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 4 - OWNERSHIP AND BREEDING OF WOLVES AND WOLF-DOG HYBRIDS (§§ 20-19-401 — 20-19-408) › Section 20-19-401 - Findings

The General Assembly finds that:
(1)
Wolves and wolf-dog hybrids are now present in this state but remain unregulated;
(2)
The Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control advises that no vaccination has been approved for use in wolves or wolf-dog hybrids;
(3)
However, wolves and dogs are scientifically classified as the same species;
(4)
Off- and extra-label use of vaccines approved for use in dogs are widely used to vaccinate wolves and wolf-dog hybrids, even by the United States Government, to prevent diseases such as rabies;
(5)
Failure to vaccinate wolves and wolf-dog hybrids raises the possibility of creating a large pool of animals that could serve as reservoirs for rabies; and
(6)
Due to the neglect and irresponsibility of their owners, some wolves and wolf-dog hybrids could pose a threat to public safety in this state.
Acts 2001, No. 1768, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 4 - OWNERSHIP AND BREEDING OF WOLVES AND WOLF-DOG HYBRIDS (§§ 20-19-401 — 20-19-408) › Section 20-19-402 - Definition

As used in this subchapter, "wolf-dog hybrid" means any animal which is publicly acknowledged by its owner as being the offspring of a wolf and domestic dog. No animal may be judged to be a wolf or wolf-dog hybrid based strictly on its appearance.
Acts 2001, No. 1768, § 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 4 - OWNERSHIP AND BREEDING OF WOLVES AND WOLF-DOG HYBRIDS (§§ 20-19-401 — 20-19-408) › Section 20-19-403 - Records

(a)
Owners of wolves and wolf-dog hybrids shall maintain all health records of each wolf and wolf-dog hybrid, including health certificates, records of immunization, and any other documentary evidence pertaining to the health and welfare of the animal.
(b)
The owner shall maintain records of acquisitions and disposals of wolf-dog hybrids, including the name and address of the person with whom a transaction is conducted, with entries being made on the day of the transaction.
(c)
Records shall be available for inspection by law enforcement personnel at reasonable hours.
Acts 2001, No. 1768, § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 4 - OWNERSHIP AND BREEDING OF WOLVES AND WOLF-DOG HYBRIDS (§§ 20-19-401 — 20-19-408) › Section 20-19-404 - Confinement - Care - Inspections

(a)
Wolves and wolf-dog hybrids shall be provided adequate confinement and adequate feeding.
(b)
Adequate confinement shall include at least:
(1)
A brick, concrete, or chain-link enclosure surrounded by two (2) layers of fencing as follows:
(A)
For a single animal:
(i)
Either an inner chain-link fence a minimum of fifteen feet by eight feet by ten feet (15' x 8' x 10') or an electric fence that prevents climbing over, and either extending two feet (2') underground or employing some other means that prevents digging under; and
(ii)
An outer fence eight feet (8') high with at least four feet (4') between the two (2) fences unless the inner fence is an electric fence posted with warning signs and the gate is locked at all times;
(B)
For a pair, double the cage length for a single animal; or
(C)
For more than two (2) animals, add ten feet (10') to the single animal length and width for each additional animal;
(2)
A secluded den four feet (4') square for each animal; and
(3)
No more than four (4) total of wolves or wolf-dog hybrids, or both, per acre.
(c)
Adequate confinement shall not include tethering of a wolf or wolf-dog hybrid not under the direct supervision and control of the owner or custodian.
(d)
(1)
Adequate feeding shall include daily feedings and provisions of water.
(2)
The feed used shall consist of a minimum meat-based protein content of twenty-five percent (25%) and crude fat of fifteen percent (15%), with exceptions for geriatric and overweight animals or under the advice of a licensed veterinarian.
(e)
Owners and custodians of wolves and wolf-dog hybrids shall allow inspections by law enforcement personnel at reasonable hours to ensure adequate confinement and adequate feeding.
(f)
This section applies only to owners of four (4) or more adult wolf-dog hybrids or wolves, animals one (1) year of age or older.
Acts 2001, No. 1768, § 4.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 20 - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE (§§ 20-2-101 — 20-86-113) › Subtitle 2 - HEALTH AND SAFETY (§§ 20-6-101 — 20-38-113) › Chapter 19 - ANIMALS (§§ 20-19-101 — 20-19-610) › Subchapter 4 - OWNERSHIP AND BREEDING OF WOLVES AND WOLF-DOG HYBRIDS (§§ 20-19-401 — 20-19-408) › Section 20-19-405 - Entry into state

(a)
Wolves and wolf-dog hybrids may enter into this state only if each animal is accompanied by a certificate of veterinary inspection indicating that the animal is free from disease or exposure to infectious or contagious disease.
(b)
No animals from rabies-quarantined areas shall be admitted into this state.
Acts 2001, No. 1768, § 5.