SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5690
As of January 14, 2022
Title: An act relating to firearms on the capitol campus for the sole purpose of organized memorial events.
Brief Description: Concerning firearms on the capitol campus for the sole purpose of organized memorial events.
Sponsors: Senators Gildon, Nobles, Conway, Honeyford, McCune, Mullet, Padden, Randall, Rivers, Van De Wege and Wagoner.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Law & Justice: 1/17/22.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Exempts color guard and honor guard from liability when carrying a firearm or other weapon on the capitol campus while actively participating in, walking to, and leaving organized memorial events.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE
Staff: Ryan Giannini (786-7285)
Background:

The open carry of firearms is generally prohibited in certain buildings on the west state capitol campus, any buildings on the state capitol grounds, any state legislative offices, or any location of a public legislative hearing or meeting during the hearing or meeting. "Buildings on the state capitol grounds" means the following buildings located on the state capitol grounds, commonly known as: Legislative, Temple of Justice, John L. O'Brien, John A. Cherberg, Irving R. Newhouse, Joel M. Pritchard, Helen Sommers, Insurance, Governor's Mansion, Visitor Information Center, Carlyon House, Ayer House, General Administration, 1500 Jefferson, James M. Dolliver, Old Capitol, Capitol Court, State Archives, Natural Resources, Office Building #2, Highway-License, Transportation, Employment Security, Child Care Center, Union Avenue, Washington Street, Professional Arts, State Farm, and Powerhouse Buildings.
 
A violation of this prohibition is a gross misdemeanor.
 
Exceptions to the prohibition are provided for law enforcement personnel, for persons with valid concealed pistol licenses, and for members of the armed forces who carry a firearm or other weapon in the discharge of their official duty or traveling to or from official duty.
Summary of Bill:

Color guard and honor guard are exempt from liability when carrying a firearm or other weapon on the capitol campus while actively participating in, walking to, and leaving organized memorial events.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.