Senate Bill 949 aims to enhance public safety at polling places by prohibiting the carrying of firearms within 100 feet of these locations during specific times. The bill establishes that individuals are not allowed to go armed with a firearm in or near polling places one hour before they open and one hour after they close. This prohibition applies to all individuals except for law enforcement officers and certain security personnel who are exempted from these restrictions. The bill creates a new statute, 941.236, which classifies violations of this prohibition as a Class A misdemeanor.

In addition to the new provisions, the bill amends several existing statutes to incorporate references to the newly created section 941.236. These amendments include changes to the definitions of where concealed weapons may be carried and the penalties associated with violations of firearm laws. The bill also outlines the consequences for juveniles found in violation of firearm regulations, including the suspension of their operating privileges. Overall, the legislation seeks to ensure a safer environment during elections by restricting firearm access at polling places.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 175.60(2g)(a), 175.60, 175.60(5)(a)6, 938.34(14q), 938.34, 938.78(3), 938.78, 973.137(1), 973.137