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Washington Gun Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.

Washington Gun Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.

Washington Gun Laws

Over the past ten years, Washington’s gun laws have undergone substantial revisions, reflecting the state’s commitment to harmonizing Second Amendment rights with contemporary perspectives on public safety. From background checks to assault weapon regulations, these changes underscore Washington’s dedication to responsible firearm ownership. This article provides an overview of the key updates in Washington’s gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023:

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2013 — Universal Background Checks Enactment

  • Adoption of laws mandating background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions.

2014 — Enhanced Mental Health Reporting

  • Strengthened reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by individuals with mental health concerns.

2015 — Enhanced Penalties for Gun Crimes

  • Introduction of legislation imposing stricter penalties for individuals convicted of gun-related crimes, aiming to deter illegal firearm use and promote public safety.

2016 — Enhanced Background Checks for Assault Weapons

  • Passage of laws requiring enhanced background checks for assault weapon purchases.

2017 — Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Enactment

  • Adoption of laws allowing law enforcement to seek temporary firearm removal from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others.

2018 — “Bump Stock” Ban

  • Enactment of laws prohibiting the possession, sale, or transfer of bump stocks, enhancing regulation of firearm accessories.

2019 — Enhanced Reporting on Lost or Stolen Firearms

  • Strengthened laws requiring firearm owners to report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement within a specific timeframe.

2020 — Assault Weapon Regulations

  • Exploration of potential legislation to further regulate or ban certain types of assault weapons.

2021 — Enhanced Oversight of Firearms Dealers

  • Strengthened regulation and oversight of firearm dealers to ensure responsible sales practices.

2022 — Firearm Waiting Period Discussion

  • Exploration of potential legislation implementing a mandatory waiting period for firearm purchases.

2022 — Enhanced Training for Concealed Carry

  • Exploration of measures to enhance training requirements for individuals applying for concealed carry permits.
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2023 — Enhanced Reporting on Domestic Violence

  • Strengthened reporting of domestic violence incidents to NICS, preventing individuals with restraining orders from accessing firearms.

2023 — Firearm Storage and Child Access Prevention Laws

  • Enactment of laws promoting responsible firearm storage and holding adults accountable for securing firearms from children’s access.

2023 — Firearm Safety Education Initiatives

  • Introduction of initiatives promoting firearm safety education and training among gun owners, emphasizing responsible practices and handling.

Washington’s gun laws have evolved significantly over the past decade, showcasing the state’s commitment to responsible firearm ownership and community safety. These changes underscore Washington’s proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to refine its laws, it remains important for stakeholders, policymakers, and the public to engage in informed discussions that balance individual rights with community security.

Additional Details on Washington Gun Laws

Background Checks

  • No firearm license is necessary to purchase or possess a firearm. However, an application process is required for purchasing handguns, which is not necessary for rifles or shotguns.

Handgun Purchases

  • Individuals seeking to purchase a handgun must apply and provide their name, address, driver’s license number, race, gender, and details about the firearm. A statement of eligibility is also required. There is a five-day waiting period for the delivery of the pistol to the buyer. Non-residents may face a total of up to 60 days waiting if they haven’t been residents of the state for at least three months.

Record Keeping

  • While no formal registration is required, police records are kept for all firearm purchases, which acts as a form of registration.

Age Requirements

  • The minimum age to possess a firearm is 18 years. Minors under 18 may possess a firearm with a valid hunter’s license or hunter’s safety certificate for shotguns and rifles, but not handguns. Minors engaged in hunting or sporting activities may carry firearms during these activities, including travel to and from such activities, provided the firearm is unloaded and not easily accessible in a motor vehicle.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Individuals with felony charges are disqualified from possessing firearms. Non-citizens need an alien firearm license unless they are Canadian residents with a valid hunting or sporting license from their province.

State Gun Laws