Arkansas Constitution’s Right to Bear Arms Provision Strengthened

The old provision dated back to 1868, and read, “The citizens of this State shall have the right to keep and bear arms, for their common defense.” The new, which passed 71%-29%, will read:

(a) The citizens of this State shall have the right to keep and bear arms, for:
(1) Their common defense;
(2) Lawful hunting and recreational use; and
(3) Any other lawful purpose.
(b) The right to keep and bear arms under subsection (a) of this section includes without limitation the possession and use of:
(1) Ammunition;
(2) Firearm accessories; and
(3) Firearm components.
(c) The right to keep and bear arms under subsection (a) of this section is a natural, fundamental, and individual right that shall not be infringed.