Washington: Further Consideration Scheduled for Felony Open Carry Bill

Today, the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee took no action on House Bill 1283, legislation that could cause the lawful open carry of a firearm to become a felony offense.  While today’s outcome is good news, the committee has scheduled two more executive sessions on the measure for Wednesday and Friday of next week.  It is important that you continue to contact committee members and urge them to OPPOSE this absurdly flawed measure.

House Bill 1283 will make it a felony to openly carry a firearm (or any weapon) in a group.  Further, this measure contains no exceptions for individuals who are defending themselves at home or on their own property. Not even law enforcement, military, or those carrying firearms in an official capacity are exempted.  HB 1283 overreaches in its intent by causing those who are lawfully carrying a concealed firearm to be entrapped by a felony charge if the firearm accidentally becomes visible. HB 1283 throws such a wide net that many law-abiding gun owners could potentially become felons if this measure is passed, and it needs to be stopped!

Again, please contact members of the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee and ask them to OPPOSE House Bill 1283!