Bill > HB1117

This bill requires the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission to collaborate on developing age-appropriate firearm safety instruction for public school students. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, public schools and charter schools must provide annual firearm safety education, beginning at the earliest grade deemed appropriate based on data about firearm-related incidents and children's vulnerability. The curriculum must be approved by the division and include instruction on safely responding to unsecured firearms, school safety, proper firearm handling, and safe storage. The instruction must present neutral viewpoints and cannot include branded materials from external organizations (except state-approved brands). Preferred instructional methods include watching commission-approved videos, reviewing online resources, and potentially participating in off-campus safety courses, which may include live-fire exercises with parental consent. The goal is to protect children from accidental firearm injuries by educating them about firearm safety from an early age.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1117&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R