AR SB945

Amends Arkansas Code § 5-39-203 to create an affirmative defense to criminal trespass charges when entering private property solely to retrieve a hunting dog.

Defense requires the person not possess a deadly weapon, not hunt while on the premises, identify themselves to the owner if requested, and not use motorized equipment without owner consent.

Amends Arkansas Code § 18-11-403(a)(4)(C) to add similar affirmative defense language for unlawful entry upon land, specifying the person cannot possess a firearm or bows and arrows.

Both amendments establish the same five conditions: sole purpose of dog retrieval, no weapons, no hunting activity, no motorized equipment use without permission, and identification to owner if requested.