Arkansas House Bill HB1750

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/28/23
• Refer: 3/28/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Engrossed: 4/4/23
• Refer: 4/4/23
• Report Pass: 4/6/23
• Enrolled: 4/10/23
• Chaptered: 4/12/23
• Passed: 4/12/23

Caption

To Authorize Certain Persons To Carry A Weapon On Department Of Corrections Property; To Authorize Certain Department Of Corrections Officials And Employees To Carry A Concealed Handgun; And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1750 would amend Arkansas law to clarify and expand the parameters under which certain individuals are permitted to carry firearms within correctional facilities and offices. This includes the establishment of a list maintained by the Secretary of the Department of Corrections that identifies employees authorized to carry concealed handguns, thus impacting local regulations concerning weapon possession. The bill seeks to address concerns about safety and public peace, especially given the threats faced by those working within the corrections system.

Summary

House Bill 1750 proposes to amend existing laws regarding the carrying of weapons, specifically allowing for certain persons to carry firearms on property owned by the Department of Corrections. The bill aims to enhance security for employees of the Department of Corrections who may face threats due to the nature of their jobs. This legislation aims to provide a legal framework that allows designated individuals within the corrections system, including members of the Board of Corrections and various department employees, to carry concealed handguns under specific circumstances.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1750 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step in ensuring the safety of Department of Corrections employees, acknowledging the high-profile nature of their work and the threats they may face. However, there are concerns among critics regarding the implications of increasing firearms in correctional environments, raising questions about safety and the potential for misuse of such privileges. The discussion reflects a broader debate on the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals to carry firearms.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications of arming correctional staff and the discretion given to the Secretary of the Department of Corrections to authorize employees to carry weapons. Critics argue that this could lead to possible safety risks both for the employees and the inmates, and emphasize the importance of regulating the conditions under which such permissions are granted. It remains to be seen how the bill will be implemented and its real-world effects on the operations of the Department of Corrections and public safety overall.