1. (a) As used in this section, "knife" means an instrument that:

   1. (1) consists of a sharp edged or sharp pointed blade capable of inflicting cutting, stabbing, or tearing wounds; and
   2. (2) is intended to be used as a weapon.
2. (b) The term includes a dagger, dirk, poniard, stiletto, switchblade knife, gravity knife, or throwing star.

3. (c) A person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally possesses a knife on:

   1. (1) school property (as defined in IC 35-31.5-2-285 );
   2. (2) a school bus (as defined in IC 20-27-2-8 ); or

   3. (3) a special purpose bus (as defined in IC 20-27-2-10 );

      commits a Class B misdemeanor. However, the offense is a Class A misdemeanor if the person has a previous unrelated conviction under this section and a Level 6 felony if the offense results in bodily injury to another person.

4. (d) This section does not apply to a person who possesses a knife:

   1. (1) if:

      1. (A) the knife is provided to the person by the school corporation or possession of the knife is authorized by the school corporation; and
      2. (B) the person uses the knife for a purpose authorized by the school corporation; or
   2. (2) if the knife is secured in a motor vehicle.

As added by P.L.72-2006, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.114-2012, SEC.140; P.L.158-2013, SEC.592; P.L.22-2023, SEC.3.