Next week, committees in the Washington State Legislature will be hearing legislation that would expand arbitrary zones where law-abiding citizens are left defenseless while nothing is done to hinder criminals. On February 11th, the Senate Committee on Law & Justice will be hearing Senate Bill 5434 and on February 13th, the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary will be hearing the companion House Bill 1530. Please contact committee members and urge them to OPPOSE SB 5434 and HB 1530. Click the “Take Action” button below to contact committee members.
Senate Bill 5434, sponsored by Senator Claire Wilson (D-30), and House Bill 1530, sponsored by Representative Lauren Davis (D-32), would increase the areas where law-abiding citizens are prohibited from possessing firearms, including holders of a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) carrying a handgun for self-defense. It would turn child care facilities, libraries, public parks, and recreational facilities into “gun-free zones” where law-abiding citizens would be unable to defend themselves and their loved ones against criminals who simply ignore such arbitrary boundaries. In addition, child care facilities would be required to post a “Gun-Free Zone” sign.
Again, please click the “Take Action” button above to contact committee members and urge them to OPPOSE SB 5434 and HB 1530.
In addition, House Bill 1465, sponsored by Representative Roger Goodman (D-45), HB 1645 will be heard by the House Committee on Judiciary on February 15th. It would require CPL holders to undergo a state background check on handgun purchases instead of the instant NICS check that is currently being conducted as a courtesy by the FBI. Unfortunately, beginning July 1st, the FBI will no longer be conducting these courtesy NICS checks for CPL holders. Your NRA is actively working to find solutions that will continue to allow CPL holders to transfer firearms in a timely manner. Please stay tuned for further updates on this issue.