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SB 304

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 11 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO POSSESSION OF A FIREARM OR PROJECTILE WEAPON IN A SAFE SCHOOL ZONE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Eric Buckson and 8 co-sponsors

SB 304 tightens penalties and definitions for possessing firearms or projectile weapons in safe school zones to enhance school safety and enforcement.

Introduced and Assigned to Judiciary Committee in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 304

Summary of SB 304 (Session 153, Delaware)

Purpose and intent

SB 304 proposes amendments to Title 11 of the Delaware Code addressing the possession of a firearm or projectile weapon in a safe school zone. The bill aims to modify prohibitions, definitions, or enforcement related to bringing or possessing firearms or projectile weapons within designated school zones, with the stated objective of clarifying existing rules or adjusting penalties, procedures, or exemptions in such contexts. The exact textual provisions are not provided here, but the bill centers on school safety and firearms in proximity to educational facilities.

Key provisions and changes (as typically associated with safe school zone firearms bills)

While the specific statutory language is not included in the summary, bills of this nature generally address:
- Expanded or clarified prohibitions on possessing firearms or projectile weapons in safe school zones or on school property.
- Definitions of “safe school zone,” “firearm,” and “projectile weapon,” including any distinctions between concealed carry vs. open carry, and whether exceptions apply for licensed individuals, law enforcement, or authorized personnel.
- Penalties for violations, which may range from misdemeanor to felony levels depending on factors (type of weapon, intent, age of offender, possession on school property, or during school events).
- Allowances or exemptions for certain individuals (e.g., law enforcement officers, authorized school security personnel, or permit holders under specific circumstances).
- Procedures for enforcement, including potential searches, seizure of weapons, and reporting requirements.
- Provisions related to forfeiture, criminal history considerations, and potential impact on student discipline or school safety plans.
- Coordination with other Delaware statutes or federal regulations.

Who would be affected

  • Individuals who possess firearms or projectile weapons in or around safe school zones, including students, staff, visitors, and contractors.
  • Licensed firearm owners who might have exemptions or clarified exceptions.
  • School districts, school boards, and educational institutions responsible for enforcing gun-free zone policies and safety protocols.
  • Law enforcement and school safety personnel involved in enforcement, reporting, and response to incidents involving weapons on campus.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill was introduced and assigned to the Judiciary Committee in the Senate on May 6, 2026.
  • As a Judiciary Committee matter, it would typically follow standard legislative process: committee hearings, potential amendments, floor debate, and votes in the Senate, with a companion process in the House (if applicable) or cross-references to related bills.
  • Specific effective dates, transitional rules, and any phase-in provisions would be stated in the bill text (not provided here). Often such bills include an effective date upon enactment, with some provisions taking effect later to allow institutions to comply.

Important considerations for readers

  • The exact scope of “safe school zone” and any exceptions (e.g., for permitted individuals, sporting events, or fuel onsite) will determine practical impact.
  • Penalty levels and enforcement procedures will influence deterrence, school safety outcomes, and potential civil or administrative consequences for violators.
  • Coordination with other Delaware firearm laws (permitting, concealed carry, and exemptions) may affect how the bill interacts with existing rights and regulations.

If you have access to the full text of SB 304, I can provide a more precise, line-by-line analysis of the exact provisions, definitions, penalties, and effective dates.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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