Senate Bill 5098 would add neighborhood and regional park facilities where children are likely present, state and local public buildings, and county fairgrounds during fair operating hours to the list of locations where knowingly possessing a weapon is prohibited. Staff counsel Joe McKittrick summarized current law and explained the bill’s new inclusions and signage requirements.

Senator Javier Valdez (46th District), the prime sponsor, said the bill would “extend critical firearm restrictions” to places where families gather and cited a fairground incident in Grant County as an example of the risks posed by firearms in crowded public venues. Supporters included public-health officials, violence-prevention groups and survivors of gun violence. Liz Jelmseth, who identified herself as a survivor, testified that confronting a person openly carrying at a playground left parents fearful and said the bill would give local governments tools to restrict firearms in family spaces. Public Health—Seattle & King County and medical and pediatric organizations told the committee that parks and fairgrounds are appropriate places to protect children from exposure to firearms and trauma.

Opponents included gun-rights groups and individuals who argued the bill would erode concealed-pistol-license (CPL) exceptions, create confusing local "gun-free" zones, and make law-abiding citizens more vulnerable by forcing more firearms into cars where theft risk is high. Several witnesses urged enforcement of existing laws instead of expanding prohibited areas; others raised concerns about remote parks and workers who might rely on lawful carry for personal safety.

Senate Bill 5098 would not apply to color-guard or honor-guard activities related to burial and interment ceremonies and would exclude gun shows at fairgrounds. The transcript records extensive public testimony in favor and opposed; the committee did not record a final vote during the hearing.