United StatesExpands federal gun-free zones to include preschools and early childhood programs
It changes where federal restrictions on carrying firearms apply, potentially affecting safety and enforcement at early childhood education sites.
What it does
Adds “early childhood education program” to the Gun-Free School Zones Act definition of a school, referencing the Higher Education Act definition.
Adds “preschool” to the Act’s covered places, using the Higher Education Act cross-reference for the term eligible preschool program.
Reformats the statutory definition into subparts (A), (B), and (C), expanding the category of places treated as schools under the statute.
Argument forExtends federal firearm protections to younger children by covering preschools and early childhood programs, reducing the chance of guns on those premises.
Argument againstExpanding the federal zone could criminalize otherwise lawful possession by licensed adults (staff or parents) in settings not previously covered, raising practical concerns.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jun 23Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H4134)Latest
- Jun 8Introduced in House
- Jun 8Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.Introduced
Public SafetyCriminal JusticeConsumer Protection