HB1888 Summary

• Creates an "enhanced endorsement" to carry a concealed handgun requiring completion of up to 8 hours of training (non-renewable) costing no more than a nominal amount, administered by the Department of Arkansas State Police.

• Allows holders of the enhanced endorsement to carry concealed handguns in publicly owned buildings and facilities (except courtrooms, K-12 schools, and correctional facilities) and in certain alcohol-serving establishments and places of worship that do not post written prohibitions.

• Permits staff members at public and private universities, colleges, and community colleges to carry concealed handguns if they complete the enhanced training and the institution does not adopt a disallowing policy (public institutions' policies expire after one year and require annual readoption).

• Modifies existing concealed carry license restrictions under Arkansas Code § 5-73-306 to exempt enhanced endorsement holders from prohibitions on carrying in certain locations, subject to specific written notice requirements from property owners.

• Effective date: September 1, 2017; Department of Arkansas State Police must promulgate training program rules within 120 days of enactment.