HB 1408 Summary - Permitted Open Carry Act

• Changes Arkansas law to allow citizens to carry handguns openly or concealed in public without a permit, unless otherwise prohibited by law, for self-defense purposes.

• Renames the "Concealed Handguns" licensing system to "License to Carry a Handgun in Public" and converts all existing concealed carry licenses to the new designation automatically.

• Maintains prohibited locations for handgun carrying including police stations, courthouses, schools, airports, government buildings, and private property with posted notices; allows open carry in incorporated areas only if licensee has valid license.

• Requires applicants to be U.S. citizens aged 21+, pass background checks, complete firearms training, meet residency requirements of 90 days, and satisfy criteria including no felony convictions and no substance abuse issues.

• Establishes licensing fees of $100 for new licenses and $35 for renewals with 5-year validity periods; requires digital photographs on all licenses issued after the effective date.