Bill > SB5098

This bill modifies existing Washington state law to expand restrictions on weapon possession in various public spaces. Specifically, the bill prohibits carrying weapons in several new locations, including city, town, county, or municipal park facilities where children are likely to be present (such as playgrounds, sports fields, swim beaches, teen centers, and skate parks), state or local public buildings where government employees regularly work, and county fairgrounds during fair hours. The bill requires these locations to post appropriate signage at common access points to notify the public about weapon prohibitions. Local authorities are responsible for designating which specific park facilities fall under these restrictions. The law applies to a broad definition of "weapons," including firearms, explosives, knives, and other instruments capable of causing bodily injury. Violations of these weapon restrictions are classified as a gross misdemeanor. The bill includes several exemptions, such as for law enforcement personnel, military personnel, and individuals with concealed carry permits, and specifically notes that the restrictions do not apply to gun shows operating on county fairgrounds.