The bill S.131, introduced by Senator Baruth, seeks to amend the charter of the City of Burlington to prohibit the possession of firearms in any building or on any real property or parking area owned or controlled by establishments licensed to serve alcohol for on-premises consumption. The General Assembly approves this amendment, which was voted on by the public on March 4, 2025. The bill explicitly states that it supersedes existing laws regarding firearm possession and allows the City to regulate firearms in this context.

Under the new provisions, individuals are banned from carrying or possessing firearms in designated areas, with specific exceptions for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and the owners or operators of the establishments, provided they are legally permitted to carry weapons. Violations of this ban can result in criminal penalties, including fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to 90 days, as well as civil penalties ranging from $200 to $500. Additionally, law enforcement officers are authorized to seize weapons involved in violations, with a process for appealing the forfeiture of such weapons. The act is set to take effect upon passage.