Arkansas is taking a bold step toward empowering kids with life-saving knowledge about firearms. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has signed legislation that will make the Natural State one of the first to require comprehensive gun safety education in public schools.
At a glance:
• Arkansas Act 229 (House Bill 1117) mandates firearm safety instruction in all public and charter schools starting in 2025-2026
• The state ranks among the top five for child gun deaths according to a 2020 study
• Curriculum will cover proper handling, safe storage, and what to do if finding an unsecured firearm
• Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will collaborate with the Department of Education to develop age-appropriate materials
• Optional live-fire demonstrations will be available with parental consent
Putting Safety First
Arkansas is taking proactive measures to protect children by implementing mandatory firearm safety education in schools statewide. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed Act 229, also known as House Bill 1117, which requires public and charter schools to provide students with essential gun safety instruction beginning in the 2025-2026 school year.
The legislation, introduced by Senator Joshua Bryant and Representative Scott Richardson on January 14, addresses a critical safety concern in a state with high rates of firearm ownership. Arkansas ranks among the top five states for child gun deaths, according to a 2020 study.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) will work jointly with the Department of Education to determine appropriate grade levels and develop comprehensive educational courses. This partnership ensures the curriculum will be both educationally sound and technically accurate regarding proper firearm handling and safety procedures.
Practical Safety Skills
Students will learn critical skills including handling and safe storage of firearms, steps to take if finding an unsecured firearm, and general school safety related to firearms. The instruction methods may include educational videos, online resources, and potentially off-campus courses for more comprehensive training.
Representative Scott Richardson explained the practical motivation behind the bill: “All of our children play together and invade whatever home happens to be the play of the day. And in that process, they may go into a neighbor’s home and discover that unsecured firearm, and how would they react.”
Parents will maintain control over the level of their child’s participation in certain aspects of the training. The bill explicitly requires written parental consent for any live-fire exercises.
Community Support and Implementation
The legislation emerges from community conversations about children’s safety around unsecured firearms, reflecting the state’s commitment to responsible gun ownership. Arkansas continues to uphold Second Amendment traditions while ensuring young people have the knowledge to prevent accidents and stay safe.
The Education Committee initially heard the bill on January 21, with the state Senate subsequently passing the legislation before it reached Governor Sanders’ desk. The Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission will now begin the process of creating and approving courses for implementation in the 2025-2026 school year.
