This bill amends K.S.A. 21-6301 to increase the criminal penalties associated with possessing or refusing to surrender a firearm on school property or during school-sponsored events. The bill redefines the criminal use of weapons, categorizing various offenses into different classes of misdemeanors and felonies. Notably, it deletes the previous classification of refusing to surrender a firearm as a class A nonperson misdemeanor, instead categorizing it as a severity level 8, nonperson felony. The bill also clarifies exceptions to these rules, including provisions for law enforcement officers and specific circumstances under which individuals may possess firearms on school grounds.

Additionally, the bill outlines various exemptions for individuals under certain conditions, such as participation in approved firearms safety courses or possession of firearms secured in vehicles by authorized individuals. It also introduces definitions for terms like "domestic violence," "fugitive from justice," and "intimate partner" to provide clarity in enforcement. The existing section of K.S.A. 21-6301 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-6301