HB 1700 Summary

• Changes Arkansas Code § 5-73-119(e) from establishing "a defense to prosecution" to stating it "is permissible to carry a handgun" in specified locations including one's dwelling, place of business, or property where the person has possessory or proprietary interest.

• Adds ten specific exceptions permitting handgun possession, including for law enforcement officers, hunting, certified safety courses, school-approved educational courses, and minors engaged in lawful marksmanship competition under adult supervision.

• Amends Arkansas Code § 5-73-120 to clarify that carrying a weapon with intent to unlawfully employ it is prohibited, while establishing separate defenses for lawful possession by law enforcement, security guards, hunters, and those with valid concealed carry licenses.

• Modifies the definition of "knife" to include bladed hand instruments three inches or longer and specifically lists examples such as dirks, swords, razors, ice picks, throwing stars, switchblades, and butterfly knives.

• Establishes that carrying a weapon into an alcoholic beverage establishment is a misdemeanor with a fine up to $2,500 or imprisonment up to one year, while other weapon carrying violations constitute Class A misdemeanors.