New law to ban open carry of firearms at public demonstrations and capitol campus

A bill that prohibits the open carry of a firearm or other weapons at or near public demonstrations, the capitol grounds, and other legislative locations has passed the Legislature.

SB 5038, sponsored by Senator Patty Kuderer (D–Clyde Hill), makes it unlawful for any person to knowingly open carry a firearm or any weapon:

• While at any demonstration held at a public place. The prohibition applies whether the person carries the weapon on their person or in a vehicle.
• Within 250 feet of a demonstration at a public place after a duly authorized state or local law enforcement officer advises that person of the demonstration and directs the person to leave until they no longer possess or control a weapon.
• On the west side capitol grounds, in any building on the state capitol grounds, in any state legislative office, or at any location of a public legislative hearing or meeting during the hearing or meeting.

Members of law enforcement are exempt from the prohibition when carrying a firearm in conformance with their employing agency’s policy.

Violation of the provisions is punishable as a gross misdemeanor.

SB 5038 heads to the Governor for his signature.