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AR HB1630

Bill

Status

Failed

5/1/2017

Primary Sponsor

Clarke Tucker

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

91st General Assembly (2017 Regular)

AI Summary

  • Amends Arkansas Code § 5-73-101 to define "readily dischargeable firearm" as a loaded firearm with or without a round in the chamber, and "secure" as steps a reasonable person would take to prevent child access, including locked containers or trigger locks.

  • Creates new offense of negligently allowing access to a firearm by a child (§ 5-73-134), applicable when a child under 17 gains access to a readily dischargeable firearm due to failure to secure it or negligent placement in an accessible location.

  • Establishes exemptions when child access is supervised by someone 21+ years old per state law, supervised by someone 18+ for hunting or sporting purposes, involves lawful self-defense, or occurs during agricultural enterprises.

  • Classifies the offense as Class A misdemeanor if the child discharges the firearm causing death or injury; Class B misdemeanor if discharged without injury or displayed in public or threatening manner; otherwise Class C misdemeanor.

  • Prohibits arrest for 7 days after offense if the person is a family member of the child and the child caused death or serious injury to themselves through firearm discharge.

Legislative Description

To Protect Children From Unattended Loaded Firearms; And To Create The Offense Of Negligently Allowing Access To A Firearm By A Child.

Last Action

Died in House Committee at Sine Die Adjournment

5/1/2017

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/21/2017

Full Bill Text

No bill text available