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Bill

SB 5098

Restricting the possession of weapons on the premises of state or local public buildings, parks or playground facilities where children are likely to be present, and county fairs and county fair facilities.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Manka Dhingra and 10 co-sponsors

Washington bill prohibits firearms and weapons at public buildings, parks, playgrounds, and county fairs where children gather, creating weapon-free zones statewide.

By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
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Bill Summary · SB 5098

Legislative bill overview

SB 5098 prohibits individuals from possessing firearms and certain other weapons on the grounds of state and local public buildings, parks, playgrounds, and county fairs in Washington. The bill creates weapon-free zones in spaces where children are likely to gather, with specified exceptions for law enforcement and potentially other authorized personnel.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects public safety policy and Second Amendment rights in Washington by restricting where law-abiding citizens can carry weapons in high-traffic community spaces. The bill reflects ongoing national debates about balancing gun rights with child safety in public areas, and its passage could serve as a model for other states or face legal challenges based on constitutional grounds.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Critics argue the broad weapon restrictions may violate constitutional rights to bear arms, particularly in outdoor public spaces like parks, which have traditionally allowed firearms
  • Enforcement and definition ambiguity: Questions about how "weapons" are defined, what counts as "likely to be present" with children, and how authorities will enforce compliance across numerous public facilities
  • Carve-outs and fairness: Disagreement over which exceptions (law enforcement, security personnel, etc.) are appropriate and whether they create unequal application of the law

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

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