This bill aims to provide civil immunity for churches and other places of worship, as well as for volunteer security personnel who offer safety and protection services at these locations. It introduces a new definition for "volunteer security person," which refers to individuals authorized by a church to provide security without any expectation of payment. The bill amends Arkansas Code to include a new section that outlines the conditions under which civil immunity is granted, specifically stating that both the volunteer security personnel and the church are not liable for damages resulting from negligent acts while providing security services.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that civil immunity applies only if the church requires training for volunteer security personnel and the individuals have completed this training. It also clarifies that the immunity extends to the use of both nonlethal and lethal force in the course of providing security. However, this immunity does not cover actions that stem from intentional, reckless, or grossly negligent behavior.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1306 Original - 1-29-2025 02:40 PM: 16-120-501
Old version HB1306 V2 - 3-13-2025 10:39 AM: 16-120-501
HB 1306: 16-120-501