Committee clears bill ensuring medical-marijuana patients remain eligible for concealed-carry licenses

Senator Penzo opened House Bill 17 84, saying the measure ‘‘ensures the rights of Arkansas’s medical marijuana patients and caregivers are protected’’ by removing ambiguity about their lawful right to obtain a concealed-handgun license. Penzo told the committee the bill ‘‘instructs the state police not to consider a person’s status as a qualifying patient or caregiver...and prohibits the Department of Health from disclosing the identity of a medical marijuana card patient to the state police for the purpose of facilitating a background check for the issuance of a concealed carry license.’'

Penzo cited recent federal guidance, saying ‘‘the federal government has just issued guidance that echoes the law’s intent and also says gun rights should not be restricted based on a person having a medical marijuana card.’’ He argued other prescription medications do not disqualify applicants and that medical-marijuana status should be treated similarly.

Committee members asked practical and legal questions. Senator Rice asked whether the bill affects driving restrictions; Penzo replied it does not change DUI or driving rules. Senators raised whether law enforcement and prosecutors could still pursue crimes committed while under the influence; Penzo and other members replied the bill does not alter criminal statutes or prosecutorial authority. Questions also touched on potential federal form language and whether license applicants must certify they are not using federally prohibited drugs; sponsors said they were not aware of a conflict and framed the bill as aligning state practice with recent federal guidance.

With no one signed up to speak for or against the bill, Penzo closed and asked for a favorable vote. The committee approved the bill by voice vote and the chair announced passage.