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Bill > SB698


OR SB698

Relating to the possession of firearms in certain public areas.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2025
In Committee
01/17/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Legislative Measures

Bill Summary

The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: The Act changes the public areas where a person with a CHL can possess a gun. (Flesch Readability Score: 79.5). Authorizes the governing bodies of certain public entities that own or control public buildings to adopt a policy, ordinance or regulation limiting the affirmative defense for concealed handgun licensees for the crime of possessing a firearm in a public building. Provides that in a prosecution for possessing a firearm in a building or on grounds subject to such a policy, ordinance or regu- lation, the concealed handgun licensee affirmative defense is not a complete defense, but results in a Class A misdemeanor conviction punishable by 364 days’ imprisonment, $6,250 fine, or both.

AI Summary

This bill modifies Oregon law regarding firearm possession in public areas, specifically expanding the ability of certain public entities to restrict firearms in their buildings and on adjacent grounds. The bill allows the governing bodies of cities, counties, districts, and other municipal corporations to adopt policies that remove the existing affirmative defense for concealed handgun licensees (CHL) who possess firearms in their buildings. Under the new provisions, if a governing body adopts such a policy, a person with a concealed handgun license who brings a firearm into a building or adjacent grounds subject to this policy would be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a potential penalty of up to 364 days in jail, a fine of up to $6,250, or both. The bill requires these entities to post clearly visible signs at entry points and on their websites indicating that the firearm possession affirmative defense does not apply. This change extends similar existing restrictions for educational institutions to other types of public entities, giving local governing bodies more control over firearm possession in their buildings and on their grounds.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (8)

Last Action

Senate Judiciary Public Hearing and Possible Work Session (15:00:00 4/7/2025 HR E) (on 04/07/2025)

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