OLYMPIA — A bill to keep Washingtonians safe from gun violence was heard in the Senate Law & Justice Committee Tuesday.
Senate Bill 5098, sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez (D-Seattle), would prohibit weapons in locations where children and families frequently gather, including parks with playgrounds, as well as state and local government buildings and county fairs during public hours. This bill also includes provisions for clear signage to inform the public of these restrictions, ensuring widespread awareness and compliance.
“Families deserve to feel safe in parks, playgrounds, and other public spaces where children are present,” Valdez said. “This bill takes commonsense steps to reduce the risk of violence in these environments and prioritize our communities’ safety.”
The legislation builds on 2024’s Senate Bill 5444 which prohibited weapons in public libraries, zoos, aquariums, and transit centers. By adding parks, government buildings, and county fairs to the list of restricted areas, this bill seeks to make more spaces safer and provide greater peace of mind to the community while maintaining exemptions for law enforcement and other security personnel in the line of duty.
The bill is scheduled for executive session in the Law & Justice Committee Thursday, Jan.16.
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