AR HB1249

Allows individuals with a concealed carry endorsement under § 5-73-322(g) to carry concealed handguns in public university, public college, and community college buildings and grounds, subject to specific restrictions and institutional policies.

Requires completion of an approved training course (up to 8 hours, non-renewable) by the Department of Arkansas State Police to obtain a concealed carry endorsement for campus carry.

Permits institutions to adopt policies disallowing concealed handgun possession by staff members, with policies expiring one year after adoption and requiring annual readoption.

Allows individuals with the endorsement to carry concealed handguns in certain establishments serving alcohol and places of worship unless those establishments post written notices prohibiting firearms.

Exempts endorsed licensees from prohibitions on firearms in publicly owned buildings when carrying a concealed handgun, but maintains restrictions in courtrooms, K-12 schools, and correctional facilities.

Effective date: September 1, 2017.