(1) Firearms or other dangerous weapons are prohibited at all facilities owned, leased, or operated by the office of administrative hearings and in rooms where the office of administrative hearings is conducting an administrative hearing. This prohibition applies to all parties or witnesses at hearings, all office of administrative hearings employees, and all other persons present. However, it does not apply to law enforcement personnel, security personnel, or military personnel, all while engaged in official duties.

(2) As used in this chapter, "firearm or other dangerous weapon" means any firearm as defined in RCW 9.41.010, explosive as defined in RCW 70.74.010, or weapon listed in RCW 9.41.250.

(3) Possession of a valid concealed weapons permit is not a defense to the prohibition in this section.

(4) This prohibition does not apply to lawful firearms or other lawful weapons while confined to private motor vehicles in parking areas at hearings facilities.

(5) This prohibition does not apply to firearms or other dangerous weapons offered as evidence in an administrative hearing.