Key Bills
– Senate File 2263 (SF 2263): This aimed to expand where firearms can be lawfully carried or stored, prohibiting additional regulations on possessing, transporting, or carrying dangerous weapons in vehicles in public parking lots operated by state or local governments (e.g., city, county, township lots). It initially included broader provisions for school and university parking but was amended on the Senate floor to strip those (removing allowances for K-12 school pick-up/drop-off areas, university campuses, etc.). As passed by the Senate (35-12 vote on February 24, 2026), it focuses on government-operated lots and allows loaded firearms in vehicles for foster care transport. It also passed the Senate but has faced criticism from groups like NRA-ILA for weakening original pro-gun provisions. Now in the House for consideration.
– Senate File 2280 (SF 2280): This expands concealed carry privileges for certain officials, granting a “professional permit” to carry firearms anywhere in the state (including school grounds and courtrooms) to members of the General Assembly (state lawmakers), judicial officers (judges), the Attorney General, deputy attorneys general, and assistant attorneys general. It passed the Senate overwhelmingly (45-2 vote) shortly after SF 2263’s passage, drawing criticism for expanding elite protections while limiting others. It advanced from committee and is moving through the process (similar legislation passed a House committee earlier).
– House File 621 (HF 621): This seeks to allow lawful concealed carry in vehicles while picking up/dropping off at schools or making deliveries, with firearms required to be secured in the vehicle and limited to school driveways/parking areas. It advanced from the House Education Committee and is pending a full House vote (NRA-ILA urged action as of March 13, 2026, noting the chamber-of-origin deadline looming). This is a priority for expanding self-defense rights near schools.
Other Mentions
– Some bills like SF 2257 addressed firearm eligibility requirements (e.g., clarifying disqualifiers), with subcommittee action in February 2026.
– HF 2398 or related measures touched on firearms on school property/vehicles, often in education committee contexts.
– No major anti-gun bills (e.g., red flag laws or broad restrictions) appear to have gained traction; the session leaned pro-Second Amendment overall, though with compromises and criticisms of “elite carve-outs.”
The session timetable shows funnel deadlines passed (e.g., February 20 for committee reports, March 20 for crossover), with debate ongoing into March. As of March 13, 2026, bills like HF 621 are still active and need floor action soon. Outcomes (passage, vetoes, signing) may still be pending for some.
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