Arkansas Criminal Firearm Law Enforcement
Accountability Act
The Arkansas Criminal Firearm Law Enforcement Accountability Act ensures that existing criminal firearm laws are enforced consistently across Arkansas—without creating new restrictions or infringing on the rights of lawful gun owners. By requiring annual certification, interagency coordination, timely reporting to NICS, and accountability for noncompliance, it promotes public safety, strengthens trust in law enforcement, and protects constitutional rights. Agencies that fail to enforce the law are subject to review and corrective plans, while lawful firearm owners remain free from unnecessary government overreach. Protecting our communities requires enforcement where it belongs—with the law, not with regulation. This is a commonsense way to uphold safety and preserve liberty.
Draft legislation supported by Joshua Irby, candidate for State Senate District 16. Not yet introduced.
Every proposal I introduce answers one central question:
Will this strengthen or weaken the long-term health and integrity of the State of Arkansas — and of the Republic?
Here’s where this legislation stands:
Does this legislation serve a clear and necessary purpose?
Yes. This act ensures consistent enforcement of existing criminal firearm laws, addressing gaps and inconsistencies that can undermine public safety. It provides accountability for law enforcement, prosecutors, and courts while protecting the constitutional rights of lawful firearm owners.
Does it align with constitutional principles and the rule of law?
Yes. The act is limited to criminal conduct and reinforces the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution and Article 2, Section 5 of the Arkansas Constitution. It expressly prohibits creating registries, new regulations, or restrictions on lawful firearm ownership, ensuring government action remains within its constitutional authority.
Does it respect taxpayer dollars and avoid new burdens?
Yes. The act relies primarily on existing agency resources and appropriations, including limited funding for training and coordination. It does not impose new taxes, fees, or regulatory requirements on lawful firearm owners or the public.
Will it improve civic health and strengthen our social fabric?
Yes. By promoting transparency, accountability, and interagency coordination, the act strengthens public confidence in law enforcement and the rule of law. Ensuring that criminal firearm laws are enforced fairly helps foster trust in government institutions and the social contract.
Does it offer long-term value and strengthen the Republic?
Yes. By holding agencies accountable for enforcing existing laws and protecting lawful gun ownership, the legislation reinforces the balance of liberty and public safety. It encourages principled governance and responsible exercise of constitutional authority, supporting both the integrity of the state and the Republic over time.
Final Verdict:
This legislation strengthens
the long-term health and integrity
of Arkansas — and the Republic.
Why it matters:
The Arkansas Criminal Firearm Law Enforcement Accountability Act ensures that existing criminal firearm laws are effectively enforced without infringing on lawful rights, promoting both public safety and constitutional governance. It builds accountability, transparency, and trust in state institutions—laying the foundation for safer communities and a stronger Republic.