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HB 1159

TO CREATE THE RETAIL CONVENIENCE STORE SECURITY ACT; AND TO REGULATE SECURITY MEASURES AT RETAIL CONVENIENCE STORES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jay Richardson

House Bill 1159 mandates security measures for Arkansas convenience stores, requiring two staff at night, cameras, cash limits, and training to enhance safety for employees and customers.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1159

Summary of House Bill 1159: Retail Convenience Store Security Act

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1159, titled the Retail Convenience Store Security Act, was introduced to enhance security measures at retail convenience stores in Arkansas. The bill aimed to address the rising incidents of crime, particularly violent crime, occurring at these establishments, especially during nighttime hours. The legislation sought to implement mandatory security protocols to protect both employees and customers.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed several minimum security measures that retail convenience stores would be required to implement starting January 1, 2026. These measures included:

  1. Staffing Requirements: A minimum of two employees must be present on the premises between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m..
  2. Security Camera System: Stores must have a security camera system capable of recording and retrieving images for law enforcement.
  3. Cash Management:
    • Installation of a drop safe or cash management device for restricted access to cash.
    • Posting a notice indicating that the cash register contains $50 or less.
    • Developing a cash management policy to limit cash on hand after 9:00 p.m..
  4. Lighting and Visibility:
    • Maintaining a lighted parking lot with a minimum illumination of two foot-candles.
    • Ensuring unobstructed views of the cash register and sales area from outside.
  5. Height Markers: Installing height markers at the entrance to assist in identifying offenders.
  6. Employee Training: Conducting regular training for employees on security protocols.
  7. Silent Alarm: Maintaining a silent alarm system connected to law enforcement or a private security agency.
  8. Business Lockdown: Locking the business premises during nighttime hours and conducting transactions through a secure pass-through.

Impact

The bill was designed to enhance safety for both employees and customers at retail convenience stores, which have been identified as high-risk locations for crime. According to legislative findings, retail convenience stores accounted for 6% of all business robberies in the U.S., with a significant increase in violent crime incidents reported in recent years.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 16, 2025
  • Status: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025.
  • Committee Review: After being filed, the bill was read for the first time, rules were suspended, and it was referred to the Committee on Insurance & Commerce in the House.

Conclusion

While HB 1159 aimed to implement critical security measures to protect retail convenience stores from crime, it ultimately did not progress beyond the committee stage. The proposed regulations reflect a growing concern over safety in retail environments, particularly during vulnerable nighttime hours.

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

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