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HB 1686

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING LICENSES TO CARRY CONCEALED HANDGUNS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Paul Childress and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1686 aimed to tighten concealed carry license rules in Arkansas, requiring prompt notification of changes and clearer guidelines for law enforcement during arrests.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1686

Summary of House Bill 1686

Bill Number: HB 1686
Title: To Amend the Law Concerning Licenses to Carry Concealed Handguns
Status: Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: March 05, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1686 aimed to amend existing laws related to the licensing of concealed handguns in Arkansas. The bill sought to clarify procedures for the revocation of licenses, the notification process for lost or changed licenses, and the requirements for licensees when carrying concealed handguns.

Key Provisions

1. Revocation of License

  • Section 1 amended Arkansas Code § 5-73-312(a)(2) to require law enforcement officers to confiscate a concealed carry license upon arrest of the licensee for violations that necessitate revocation.
  • The confiscated license must be forwarded to the Director of the Division of Arkansas State Police and held until the legal determination of the charges is finalized.

2. Notification of License Changes

  • Section 2 revised Arkansas Code § 5-73-314 to mandate that licensees notify the Division of Arkansas State Police within 30 days of a change of permanent address or if the license is lost.
  • Licensees can obtain a duplicate license by:
    • Paying a fee set by the director.
    • Providing a notarized statement regarding the loss or request for a duplicate.
  • A 50% fee reduction is available for individuals aged 65 years or older requesting a duplicate or replacement license.

3. Identification Requirements

  • Section 3 updated Arkansas Code § 5-73-315(b) to require licensees to carry their license (or an electronic copy) along with valid identification when carrying a concealed handgun.
  • Licensees must display both the license and identification upon request from law enforcement officers.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 1686 would have affected:
- Licensees: Individuals carrying concealed handguns would need to adhere to stricter notification and identification requirements.
- Law Enforcement: Officers would have clearer guidelines on the confiscation and handling of licenses during arrests.
- Older Adults: The fee reduction provision would provide financial relief to senior citizens seeking replacement licenses.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 05, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 13, 2025: Returned by the Judiciary Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.
  • March 17, 2025: Passed by the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • May 05, 2025: Bill died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1686, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on concealed carry licensees and law enforcement in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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