Washington State Gun Laws
New Gun Laws in Washington State
Background Check Requirements
Starting in 2022, Washington State requires background checks for all gun sales and transfers, including private sales and transfers. This law closes the "gun show loophole" that allowed individuals to purchase firearms without undergoing a background check.
Extreme Risk Protection Orders
Washington State's Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law, also known as the "red flag" law, allows family members, law enforcement, and other concerned individuals to petition a court to remove firearms from someone who is deemed a danger to themselves or others. This law was expanded in 2022 to include employers, coworkers, and school administrators as petitioners.
High Capacity Magazine Ban
Washington State has banned the sale and possession of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This law also prohibits the manufacture of such magazines within the state.
Assault Weapons Ban
Washington State has banned the sale and possession of assault weapons, which are defined as semi-automatic rifles that have certain military-style features, such as a pistol grip or a folding stock. This law also prohibits the manufacture of such weapons within the state.
Pros and Cons of Washington State Gun Laws
Pros
- Background checks help prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands.
- ERPOs provide a way to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who pose a risk to themselves or others.
- Banning high capacity magazines and assault weapons can reduce the number of fatalities in mass shootings.
Cons
- Background checks can be time-consuming and may discourage law-abiding citizens from buying guns.
- ERPOs can be abused by individuals with malicious intent.
- Banning high capacity magazines and assault weapons can infringe on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens and may not effectively reduce crime.
FAQ
1. Can I still buy a gun in Washington without a background check?
No. As of 2022, all gun sales and transfers in Washington State require a background check, including private sales and transfers.
2. What happens if I violate Washington State's high capacity magazine ban?
Violating Washington State's high capacity magazine ban is a gross misdemeanor, which can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
3. Can I still own an assault weapon in Washington State?
No. As of 2022, the sale and possession of assault weapons is banned in Washington State.
4. How can I petition for an ERPO in Washington State?
You can petition for an ERPO in Washington State by filing a petition with the court in the county where the respondent resides. The petition must include specific information about the respondent's behavior and why they are a danger to themselves or others.
In conclusion, Washington State's gun laws have undergone significant changes in 2022, with the implementation of background check requirements, ERPOs, and bans on high capacity magazines and assault weapons. While some believe these laws will help reduce gun violence, others argue that they infringe on Second Amendment rights and may not effectively address the issue. Ultimately, it is up to the community to decide how to balance public safety with individual liberties.