Bill > SB698

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.

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https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB698