SB 879 - This act places limits upon the use of firearms, especially with respect to school zones, and establishes penalties for criminal storage of firearms.

UNLAWFUL USE OF WEAPONS - The carrying of ammunition or any projectile weapon into a church, school or public building is outlawed. The carrying of weapons or ammunition onto school buses or other vehicles carrying school children is outlawed. The exemption allowing concealed weapons in vehicles on continuous peaceable journeys through the state is removed.

SCHOOL ZONES - No firearm, whether loaded or not, may be possessed on school grounds or within 1000 feet of a school. Exemptions are given for private property, licensees, school programs, school contracts, law officers, hunting access and public roads. The reckless discharge of a firearm in a school zone is also prohibited, with fewer exemptions.

CRIMINAL STORAGE - It is made a crime to keep a loaded firearm in a place where a child is reasonably likely to gain access to the firearm and where the child uses the firearm to cause death or injury, or possesses it in a public place. The penalty has two degrees, depending upon the injury or death caused. Several exceptions are included. Prosecutions and arrests are limited where the violator is the parent of a child who is injured or who dies. Signs about the requirements of this act must be displayed at places where firearms are sold.
JOAN GUMMELS