Fairchild implements new firearm policies effective Apr. 17

Published April 10, 2017
By Mr. Guy Conley
92nd Security Forces Squadron

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Base visitors and personnel may have observed new signs at the installation gates, reading “Firearms Are Prohibited On These Premises, Regardless Of Concealed-Carry Permit,” with an exception effective Apr. 17.

The exception is for personnel who are authorized to carry a concealed weapon under the Law Enforcement Officer’s Safety Act. LEOSA applies to active and retired law enforcement officers, to include military policemen, and authorizes the carry of concealed weapons in any jurisdiction in the United States.

LEOSA is not an automatic right. First, an individual needs to be qualified, then must apply for the LEOSA carrying card. Federal, State, and local law enforcement officers will use their issued credentials. Once the individual has a LEOSA card, they must register with the 92nd Security Forces Squadron.

There are some off-limit areas to carrying a concealed firearm on the installation to include restricted areas, the U.S. Post Office and medical facilities. There are other facilities on base that have elected to not allow firearms inside and have been designated with a sign at the entrance stating, “Firearms Are Prohibited On These Premises, Regardless Of Concealed-Carry Permit.” If an individual needs to enter one of these facilities, they will have to store their weapon in their vehicle, following specific procedures. Registered LEOSA personnel may store their weapon in their vehicle loaded IAW RCW 9.41.050.

This is not the only change to firearms policy on base, as the rules have changed for all firearm owners. Personnel who lawfully own a firearm are allowed to transport their weapon on base, but cannot carry it on their person. This will effectively provide an opportunity for lawful carry off the installation when commuting to and from Fairchild. The weapon must be completely unloaded, no magazine or ammunition in the weapon, weapon and ammunition stored out of sight of the public in separate compartments, and the vehicle must be locked when not attended.

If both the weapon and ammunition are accessible to an occupant, the weapon or ammunition must be in a locked container. A locked container includes a lockable glove box or center console, the trunk of a car, a locked firearm carrying box, locked shipping box, or other locked container. Additionally, weapons must be secured in a completely enclosed vehicle, no motorcycles or convertibles with top down.

To see if you qualify under LEOSA, visit www.leosaonline.com. For further information and to register your LEOSA credentials at Fairchild, contact the 92nd SFS at (509) 247-5495 or (509) 247-5071.