AR HB1953

Adds a definition of "misdemeanor offense involving domestic violence" to Arkansas law, covering misdemeanor crimes against family or household members that include use or attempted use of physical force, or threatened use of a deadly weapon.

Requires courts to notify persons convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence offenses that it is unlawful for them to possess, ship, or transport firearms or ammunition under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9)).

Mandates courts indicate on conviction records that the conviction prohibits firearm possession and transmit the conviction record to the Arkansas Crime Information Center for inclusion in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

Prohibits any person convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving domestic violence from possessing or owning any firearm, adding this as a ground for firearm prohibition alongside felony convictions and mental health adjudications.

Extends the definition to include misdemeanor domestic violence offenses under federal, tribal, or other state law that occurred on or before January 1, 2021, when the offense meets the same elements of physical force or threatened deadly weapon use.