Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB536

Introduced
3/28/23  

Caption

In inchoate crimes, providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in municipal building.

Impact

The proposed legislation is designed to enhance safety in municipal facilities by clearly delineating the conditions under which firearms and weapons may be present. This shifts the responsibility to local governments, empowering them to implement their own regulations while potentially standardizing safety practices across Pennsylvania. The bill aims to address concerns regarding public safety in spaces where citizens gather to conduct governmental business.

Summary

Senate Bill 536 seeks to amend Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by introducing specific regulations regarding the possession of firearms and dangerous weapons in municipal buildings. Under this bill, if a municipality enacts an ordinance prohibiting such possession, individuals found to be in violation may face misdemeanor charges depending on the context of the offense. Notably, there are exceptions for law enforcement officers and municipal officials carrying out their official duties, as well as specific provisions for checking firearms at municipal buildings.

Sentiment

Discussion around SB 536 includes a mixture of support and opposition. Proponents argue that the law ensures a clearer framework for weapon possession in public spaces, thus enhancing security in municipal environments. Opponents, however, may raise concerns about the implications for individuals’ rights and the potential for overreach in municipal authority regarding public property. This divergence in viewpoints reflects broader debates on firearm regulations and public safety.

Contention

There are significant points of contention regarding the precise definitions included in the bill, especially what constitutes a 'dangerous weapon' and how municipalities will enforce these regulations. Critics may argue that laws limiting access to firearms in public buildings could conflict with Second Amendment rights, presenting a legal gray area. Additionally, the requirement for municipalities to provide facilities for checking firearms raises logistical concerns about implementation and compliance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB798

In inchoate crimes, providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in municipal building.

PA HB912

In inchoate crimes, further providing for possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility.

PA HB644

In inchoate crimes, providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in public recreation area.

PA SB39

In inchoate crimes, providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in public recreation area.

PA SB53

In inchoate crimes, providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in public recreation area.

PA SB357

In inchoate crimes, further providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility; in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons, repealing provisions relating to firearms not to be carried without a license and relating to carrying loaded weapons other than firearms, providing for license not required, further providing for prohibited conduct during emergency, repealing provisions relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia, providing for sportsman's firearm permit and further providing for licenses, for sale or transfer of firearms, for antique firearms and for proof of license and exception; in protection from abuse, further providing for relief; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for cooperation after lawfully killing big game; and, in protection of property and persons, further providing for loaded firearms in vehicles.

PA SB357

In inchoate crimes, further providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility; in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons, repealing provisions relating to firearms not to be carried without a license and to carrying loaded weapons other than firearms, providing for license not required, further providing for prohibited conduct during emergency, repealing provisions relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia, providing for sportsman's firearm permit and further providing for licenses, for sale or transfer of firearms, for antique firearms and for proof of license and exception; in protection from abuse, further providing for relief; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for cooperation after lawfully killing big game; in protection of property and persons, further providing for loaded firearms in vehicles; and making editorial changes.

PA HB2077

In inchoate crimes, prohibiting the possession of firearm at polling place.

PA HB1114

In inchoate crimes, prohibiting the possession of firearm at polling place.

PA HB898

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for firearms not to be carried without a license, for the offense of possession of firearm by minor and for loans on, or lending or giving firearms prohibited.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.