Des Moines, Iowa — The Iowa Senate passed Senate File 2263 (SF 2263) on February 24, 2026, in a 35-12 vote, advancing legislation that strengthens protections for lawfully carrying and storing firearms in vehicles on certain public property.

Sponsored by Sen. Jason Schultz (R-Schleswig), the bill prohibits state, county, city, or township entities from imposing additional restrictions on the carrying, transportation, or possession of a “dangerous weapon” (including firearms) in a privately owned motor vehicle parked in a publicly accessible, non-secure parking lot they operate. Key conditions require the weapon to remain out of sight and inside a locked vehicle when unoccupied. The provision excludes parking lots at National Guard facilities.

The measure also amends Iowa Code Section 237.3 to prevent the Department of Health and Human Services from adopting rules that prohibit the otherwise lawful carrying, transportation, or possession of a firearm—loaded or unloaded—in vehicles used to transport children in foster care.

Additionally, SF 2263 modifies Section 724.4A by removing designations of primary/secondary schools and public parks as explicit “weapons free zones,” though it preserves existing enhanced penalties for offenses involving firearms or offensive weapons within 1,000 feet of such locations.

The bill underwent significant amendments on the Senate floor. Original language would have extended similar vehicle protections to parking lots at K-12 schools, community colleges, and public universities, but these were stripped out amid safety concerns in educational settings. Critics, including some gun rights groups, argued the changes diluted broader carry protections for everyday citizens while advancing other priorities.

Supporters, led by Sen. Schultz, framed the legislation as a practical safeguard for law-abiding Iowans exercising their constitutional rights. They emphasized that the bill prevents undue burdens when visiting government facilities (e.g., courthouses, DMVs) and addresses real-world needs, such as for foster care providers.

Opponents, primarily Democrats, raised concerns about potential risks in public spaces, even with secured storage requirements. They noted Iowa’s evolving gun laws since 2021 permitless carry reforms, arguing further expansions could undermine safety in shared environments.

The bill, deemed of immediate importance, includes an effective date upon enactment for its parking lot provisions. It now heads to the Iowa House for consideration, where it could face further amendments or pairing with related measures like HF 621 (addressing school-related vehicle carry). If approved, it would go to Gov. Kim Reynolds, who has historically supported Second Amendment expansions.

This development reflects ongoing debates in Iowa over balancing firearm rights with public safety considerations in government-operated spaces. For full bill text and updates, visit the Iowa Legislature’s official site.

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