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HB 1481

TO CREATE THE ANTI-ATF COMMANDEERING ACT; AND TO PROHIBIT THE PROVISION OF MATERIAL AID AND SUPPORT FOR ENFORCEMENT OF FEDERAL FIREARMS LAWS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Wayne Long and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1481 aimed to stop Arkansas from aiding federal firearms law enforcement, limiting state cooperation and allowing individuals to claim $50,000 for violations.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1481

Summary of House Bill 1481: Anti-ATF Commandeering Act

Bill Number: HB 1481
Introduced: February 13, 2025
Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025
Primary Sponsors: Representative Long, Senator G. Stubblefield

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1481, titled the Anti-ATF Commandeering Act, aimed to prohibit the State of Arkansas and its political subdivisions from providing any assistance or material aid in the enforcement of federal firearms laws. The bill was introduced in response to a belief that states are not obligated to enforce federal laws, a principle supported by various U.S. Supreme Court rulings.

Key Provisions

The bill included several significant provisions:

  1. Prohibition of Material Aid:

    • The state and its subdivisions would be barred from providing any form of material aid or support for the enforcement of federal firearms laws, including:
      • Lodging
      • Communications equipment or services
      • Personnel
      • Transportation
      • Medical treatments (with specific exceptions)

  2. Restrictions on Public Officials:

    • Elected officials and public employees would be prohibited from:
      • Enforcing or attempting to enforce federal firearms laws.
      • Referring violations of federal firearms laws to the federal government.
    • Violations by public employees could lead to termination of employment.

  3. Civil Remedies:

    • Individuals who experienced violations of this act could file claims with the Arkansas State Claims Commission, potentially receiving $50,000 per violation.
    • Individuals could also pursue equitable and monetary relief in circuit courts against political subdivisions, with the possibility of recovering attorney's fees.

  4. Exemptions:

    • The act would not prevent the enforcement of state firearms laws that comply with the Arkansas Constitution.
    • Law enforcement could still use information obtained from federal agencies to enforce state laws.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1481 would have significantly limited the ability of state and local governments in Arkansas to cooperate with federal authorities regarding firearms regulations. This could have implications for law enforcement practices and the enforcement of federal laws within the state.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 13, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 5, 2025: The bill was placed on the second reading for amendment, and Amendment No. 1 was adopted.
  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

Conclusion

House Bill 1481 sought to assert state sovereignty over federal firearms laws by prohibiting state cooperation in their enforcement. Despite its introduction and amendments, the bill ultimately did not progress past the committee stage.

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

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