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Senate Bill 698

Dead Senate Bill

Authorizes the governing bodies of certain public entities that own or control public buildings to adopt a policy, ordinance or regulation limiting the affirmative defense for concealed handgun licensees for the crime of possessing a firearm in a public building.

Introduced: January 13, 2025 Updated: June 27, 2025
History

1-13 (S)

Introduction and first reading. Referred to President's desk.

1-17 (S)

Referred to Judiciary.

6-27 (S)

In committee upon adjournment.

Overview

  • Allows public entities to limit the CHL affirmative defense in certain public buildings and increases the penalty consequence.

Key provisions

  • Authorizes governing bodies of certain public entities to adopt policies limiting the CHL affirmative defense in public buildings.
  • Applies to buildings or grounds controlled by those entities.
  • Converts the affirmative defense from a complete defense into a Class A misdemeanor conviction when a policy applies.

Penalties / enforcement

  • In affected buildings, the CHL defense results in a Class A misdemeanor conviction.
  • Class A misdemeanor penalty: up to 364 days’ imprisonment and a $6,250 fine.

Effective date / timeline

  • Effective date not specified in the OLIS summary.

Exceptions / carve-outs

  • Applies only when a public entity adopts a policy, ordinance, or regulation limiting the CHL defense.
Other bills from 2025 Regular Session
  • Creates the crime of unlawful transport, manufacture or transfer of a rapid fire activator.

  • Directs the Department of State Police to create and maintain a list of states that recognize Oregon concealed handgun licenses and require a demonstration of handgun competency to obtain a license that is similar to the requirement in Oregon.

  • Directs the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission to classify theft of a firearm as a crime category 8 offense on the sentencing guidelines grid of the commission.

  • Provides that a person is automatically qualified to obtain a permit to purchase a firearm if the person holds a valid concealed handgun license.

  • Creates new theft offenses related to dwellings and increases penalties for organized retail theft when a firearm is present.