Can I Conceal Carry to My Church If it Meets at a School?

Published on March 20, 2022
Duration: 10:10

This video, featuring William Kirk of Washington Gun Law, clarifies the legality of concealed carry at a church meeting on school property in Washington State. Kirk, an attorney and President of Washington Gun Law, explains that while churches are not explicitly prohibited under general statutes, Washington's RCW 9.41.280 strictly prohibits firearms on public or private elementary and secondary school grounds, with very limited exceptions. The law applies regardless of the day or time, meaning carrying at a church service held at a school is unlawful.

Quick Summary

In Washington State, you cannot legally carry a concealed firearm to a church service if it is held on public or private elementary or secondary school grounds. This is due to RCW 9.41.280, which prohibits firearms on school premises at all times, regardless of whether a CPL is held.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Church on School Property Carry Question
  2. 02:40Baseline Prohibited Places (RCW 9.41.300)
  3. 03:44School Grounds Firearm Restrictions (RCW 9.41.280)
  4. 05:30Detailed Analysis of School Carry Bans
  5. 07:03Exemptions and Final Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I carry a concealed firearm to my church if it meets at a school in Washington State?

No, in Washington State, it is unlawful to carry or possess firearms on public or private elementary and secondary school grounds, as defined by RCW 9.41.280. This prohibition applies even if the church is renting the school's facilities for services.

Does a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) allow carry at a church on school property in Washington?

A Concealed Pistol License (CPL) does not grant an exemption for carrying firearms on school grounds in Washington State. RCW 9.41.280 prohibits firearms on school premises regardless of CPL status, with very limited exceptions not applicable to religious services.

What Washington State law prohibits firearms at schools?

Washington State law RCW 9.41.280 specifically prohibits firearms on public or private elementary and secondary school grounds. This statute applies to facilities used by schools, including rented spaces for events like church services.

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