HB1750

House Bill 1750 amends Arkansas law to permit certain Department of Corrections (DOC) officials and employees to carry concealed handguns in locations where law enforcement officers are permitted to do so. It establishes specific eligibility criteria, including requiring employees to be free of disciplinary actions, pass criminal history screenings, and complete a weapons qualification course. The Secretary of the DOC is given the authority to approve or deny such requests and must maintain a confidential list of authorized personnel, which is exempt from the Freedom of Information Act. Additionally, members of the Board of Corrections who hold a license are permitted to carry concealed handguns in similar locations. The bill also updates regulations regarding the storage of weapons by DOC employees in personal vehicles on department property. An emergency clause is included, citing increased threats of violence and the need for self-protection as justification for the immediate implementation of the act.