Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB480

Introduced
3/24/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Engrossed
4/3/23  
Refer
4/3/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Enrolled
4/7/23  
Chaptered
4/12/23  

Caption

To Clarify The Purpose Of The Statutes Authorizing A License To Carry A Concealed Handgun; And To Clarify That A License To Carry A Concealed Handgun Is Not Required To Carry A Concealed Handgun In This State.

Impact

The passage of SB480 would have a significant impact on state laws concerning gun ownership and concealed carry practices. By removing the requirement for a concealed carry license, the law would effectively simplify the process for individuals wishing to carry concealed firearms. This could increase the number of individuals carrying concealed firearms without regulation, which proponents argue could enhance personal freedom and self-defense options for citizens.

Summary

Senate Bill 480 aims to clarify the statutes regarding the licensing to carry a concealed handgun within the state of Arkansas. Specifically, the bill states that while a license for concealed carry is established for reciprocal agreements with other states, residents are not required to obtain such a license to carry a concealed handgun in Arkansas. This distinction seeks to streamline the understanding of state law surrounding concealed carry and stakeholders in firearms legislation.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB480 appears to be largely supportive among gun rights advocacy groups and many legislators who prioritize Second Amendment rights. They view the move as a necessary step towards reinforcing the rights of law-abiding citizens. On the contrary, some safety advocates express concerns regarding the potential rise in unregulated concealed weapons, fearing that it could lead to increased gun violence and public safety risks.

Contention

Notable points of contention during discussions surrounding SB480 include the balance between individual rights and community safety. Opponents argue that the absence of a licensing requirement may undermine training and accountability measures, while supporters focus on simplifying access to concealed carry and expanding personal freedoms. Ultimately, if enacted, SB480 could shift the regulatory landscape significantly, prompting further debates about gun control and public safety in Arkansas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB44

An Act For The Department Of Health - Licensing And Regulation Boards Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1023

An Act To Make An Appropriation For State Turnback For Counties And Municipalities By The Office Of The Treasurer Of State For The Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025; And For Other Purposes.

AR SR16

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

AR HR1015

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

AR HB1045

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Boards And Commissions Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1071

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Division Of Labor Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB5

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Workers' Compensation Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.