What You Need to Know About SB 554

In 2021, the Oregon Legislature passed a new gun bill over the objection of all Republicans and some Democrats. OGO strongly opposed the policy and worked tirelessly to defeat it.

SB 554 bans possession of guns in some public buildings by CHL holders and requires secure storage under certain conditions. It took effect on September 25, 2021.

Here is what you need to know:

Firearm Storage and Transfer

• “Control” means the firearm is close enough to prevent another person
  from obtaining the firearm or the owner is in their own residence and
  the residence is secure.
• When not under control of owner, possessor, or authorized person,
  firearms must be secured with lock or in a locked container or gun
  room. (Handgun cannot be left unattended in a vehicle and within view
  of persons outside the vehicle.)
• Violation is Class C violation (if obtained by a minor, it’s a Class A
  violation).
• If violation results in injury to person or property within two years, the
  violation constitutes “per se negligence,” and presumption of
  negligence cannot be overcome by showing the owner acted
  responsibly.
• “Per se negligence” does not apply if firearm was obtained by person
  unlawfully entering or remaining in a dwelling.
• Loss or theft must be reported within 72 hours. If there is no means of
  reporting, it must be reported within 24 hours of means of reporting
  becoming available.
• Minors must be supervised by owner or designee with consent of
  minor’s parent or guardian except when hunting or target shooting
  (does not apply if the minor is the owner of the firearm).

Regulation of Firearms in Public Buildings

•  School boards (public K-12, colleges, universities) may adopt policies
  banning CHL holders from possession of guns on school grounds.
• A clearly visible sign must be posted and the school district must
  provide notice on its website.
• CHL holders cannot possess guns in the Oregon Capitol or Portland
  International Airport (a person can still transport as checked baggage
  in accordance with federal law).
• CHL holders will receive a Class A misdemeanor instead of a felony for
  possessing guns in these prohibited places.

Concealed Handgun License Fees

• Increases fees from $50 for issuance and renewal of CHL to $100 for
  issuance and $75 for renewal.