DE HB276

Reinstates references to weapons other than firearms in the "Safe Recreation Zone" statute and restores the sentence enhancement scheme for weapon offenses committed in recreation zones.

Modifies § 1457 to clarify that possession of various weapons (switchblade knives, knuckles-combination knives, martial arts throwing stars, assault weapons, and destructive weapons) in Safe Recreation Zones constitutes an offense with penalties one grade higher than the underlying offense.

Adds qualified retired law-enforcement officers employed or contracted by schools or school districts to assist with security or investigations to the list of exemptions from the Safe School Zone firearm prohibition.

Clarifies that constables employed by schools or school districts acting in an official capacity are exempt from Safe School Zone firearm restrictions.

Removes affirmative defenses related to school-authorized instruction or sporting activities from the Safe Recreation Zone statute while maintaining them implicitly through the underlying offense structure.