The bill aims to establish a pathway for the restoration of firearm possession rights for individuals in Arkansas who have been convicted of certain nonviolent felonies. Specifically, it allows individuals to petition for the restoration of their firearm rights five years after completing their sentence, provided they have not been convicted of specific violent felonies or other serious offenses. The bill includes provisions for a uniform petition process and requires that the petition be served to the prosecuting attorney, who may oppose it. If granted, the individual's felony conviction will be sealed, and their right to possess a firearm will be restored.

Key amendments to existing laws include the addition of language that allows for the restoration of firearm rights through a uniform petition process, as well as the specification of certain felonies that disqualify individuals from regaining these rights. The bill also modifies existing legal language regarding the possession of firearms by individuals with felony convictions, clarifying the conditions under which rights can be restored. Overall, the legislation reflects a shift towards providing nonviolent offenders with opportunities for reintegration into society while ensuring public safety through a structured legal process.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1013 Original - 11-28-2022 11:55 AM: 5-73-103(a), 5-73-309(5)
Old version HB1013 V2 - 2-6-2023 09:24 AM: 5-73-103(a), 5-73-309(5)
Old version HB1013 V3 - 3-16-2023 10:02 AM: 5-73-103(a), 5-73-309(5)
Old version HB1013 V4 - 3-27-2023 11:07 AM: 5-73-103(a), 5-73-309(5)
Old version HB1013 V5 - 4-3-2023 12:46 PM: 5-73-103(a), 5-73-309(5), 16-90-1414, 16-90-1417(a)
HB 1013: 5-73-103(a), 5-73-309(5), 16-90-1414, 16-90-1417(a)