Senate reconsiders concealed-permit fee for school employees, tables bill over fiscal concerns

The Senate recalled House Bill 107 to the floor for reconsideration after receiving the bill back from the House. Sponsor Senator Johnson described HB 107 as a limited measure to add school employees to a list of categories eligible for concealed‑weapons permit fee waiver or reimbursement; the bill defines eligible school employees as those who work for a local education agency and are on school grounds more than half of operating days.

Floor debate and fiscal question
Senator Riebe questioned the fiscal note, quoting a figure of roughly $5,047,400 and arguing that education funds would be better spent on classroom needs (training, degrees, accreditations). Other senators supported the measure as a small cost that could help teachers or relieve fees for those choosing to carry. Senators confirmed the fiscal source in discussion (income tax/general fund restricted), but concerns about whether the education fund should subsidize permit fees prompted a motion to reconsider and then table the bill on third reading until the fiscal analysis is updated.

Outcome
The Senate recorded a roll call on reconsideration and the bill was read for a third time; senators later voted to lift House Bill 107 from third reading and place it on the table on third reading due to fiscal impact (the motion passed). When returned to the chamber, the bill will await an updated fiscal note before final disposition.

Next steps
The legislative fiscal office is expected to provide an updated note; sponsors and committee staff will coordinate before the bill returns to the calendar. If the fiscal concerns are resolved, the Senate may schedule final action.

Ending
The Senate paused final action on HB 107 to ensure the legislature had accurate fiscal information before making a final decision.