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Panel advances school‑firearms bill after debate over off‑duty officers
Summary
The committee voted to move HB 5451, clarifying possession of a firearm on school grounds by officers, to the floor after heated debate. Opponents argued schools should remain gun‑free even for off‑duty officers; supporters sought statutory clarity for agency policy and officers.
The Public Safety and Security Committee moved HB 5451 to the floor after extended debate over whether peace officers (later referred to in the bill as police officers) should be allowed to possess firearms on school grounds.
Opponents said the presence of firearms off duty can make schools feel less safe for students and staff. One lawmaker argued at length that "police officers carry firearms under the authority of the law and by the consent of the people" and that certain public spaces — including schools, parks and hospitals — should reasonably remain gun‑free to avoid retraumatizing students and others who have experienced involvement with the criminal-legal system.
Supporters said the bill clarifies existing policy for officers and that language changes made in committee were intended to reflect the public hearing record. After discussion the committee took a roll-call vote to move the bill JF to the floor; later the item was included on the consent calendar for committee passage.
Outcome and next steps: Committee voted to move the bill JF to the floor and added it to the consent calendar; the measure will be scheduled for floor consideration and may be the subject of amendments.
