Committee advances bill to allow Arkansas DOT employees to use enhanced carry permits

Little Rock — The committee approved Senate Bill 211, a measure the sponsor described as a simple drafting change to allow Arkansas Department of Transportation personnel the same ability to carry under the state's enhanced carry permit as other agencies.

Sen. Ervin presented the bill and introduced Laurie Tudor, identified in the transcript as the Arkansas Department of Transportation director, who said her agency did not understand why it had been excluded from the enhanced concealed‑carry provision and requested correction. Tudor said the change responds to employee concerns about safety when working in remote areas.

Committee members asked no follow‑up that changed the sponsor's description. The committee moved and seconded a do‑pass recommendation; a voice vote recorded 'aye' and the chair declared the bill passed.