Washington: Senate Passes Gun-Free Zone Expansion Bill

Yesterday, January 21st, the Senate held the final vote on Senate Bill 5098, a carry-over bill from the 2025 session that effectively turns the entire state of Washington into a "gun-free" zone. SB 5098 passed by a vote of 29-20, and will now be transmitted to Governor Bob Ferguson for his consideration. Please contact Governor Ferguson and urge him to VETO SB 5098 when it arrives on his desk.

Senate Bill 5098 prohibits the possession of firearms in parks, government buildings, and locations where “children are likely to be present.” While the legislation was amended to exempt concealed pistol license holders, the vague language could be interpreted and applied to interfere with hunting and recreational shooting opportunities, and impairs the constitutional right to keep and bear arms for other lawful purposes, like self-defense. This overbroad language is indicative of the disdain anti-gun legislators have for law-abiding citizens and their desire to turn the entire state of Washington into a "gun-free" zone. 

Please stay tuned to the NRA-ILA website and your inbox for updates as this legislative session progresses.