This bill amends existing laws regarding the carrying, transportation, and possession of dangerous weapons in Iowa. It introduces a new section allowing individuals to carry, transport, or possess dangerous weapons in privately owned vehicles parked in publicly accessible, nonsecure parking lots operated by state or local governments, provided the weapon is out of sight and secured in a locked vehicle. The bill also specifies that this provision does not apply to parking lots at national guard facilities. Additionally, it prohibits the Department of Health and Human Services from enforcing rules that would restrict the lawful carrying of firearms in vehicles transporting foster children.

Further, the bill establishes that community colleges and universities under the state board of regents cannot adopt policies that prohibit the possession of dangerous weapons in locked personal vehicles on their grounds, as long as the weapons are not visible from outside the vehicle. It also removes the term "weapons free zone" from the definition of areas around schools and public parks, while maintaining enhanced penalties for offenses involving firearms or offensive weapons in these areas. Lastly, it allows individuals with valid permits to carry concealed weapons on school district property, specifically in driveways and parking lots, and provides immunity to schools from lawsuits related to such possession.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 237.3, 724.8C, 902.9