In a unanimous decision impacting county government buildings in Multnomah County, the Board of Commissioners has approved an ordinance prohibiting concealed handguns—whether licensed or not—within these facilities. This measure ensures that concealed weapons will no longer be allowed in spaces dedicated to public service and community engagement.
According to Multnomah County, Commissioner Shannon Singleton called attention to the unsettling effect firearms can have, stating, “The presence of firearms in public buildings, even when carried by individuals with a concealed handgun license can undermine trust and feelings of safety, as well as increase the risk of accidental discharge, intimidation, or escalation during conflicts.”
Reflecting on the ordinance, Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards highlighted the fact that almost 37,000 concealed handgun licenses exist within county limits, and remarked, “This is one additional step to make our County buildings more welcoming and safer.” Brim-Edwards, who serves as Co-Chair of the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council, emphasized the county's diverse population and the importance of ensuring they feel safe in these spaces, in a statement obtained by Multnomah County.
Oregon’s Senate Bill 243, also called the Community Safety Firearms Act, provided the legal basis for local governments to implement such bans. The Multnomah County ordinance expands on this state law, establishing a new standard within its jurisdiction that may serve as a precedent. However, certain exemptions remain under the broader county gun safety regulations, including law enforcement officers, authorized government employees, and security personnel at financial institutions.
The practical aspects of implementing the ordinance were addressed, with Chief Operating Officer Christopher Neal estimating a 45 to 60-day period before it is fully enforced, signaled by the installation of required signage. Chair Jessica Vega Pederson described the measure as a meaningful step toward enhancing safety in Multnomah County’s public buildings.
