Washington adopts new gun safety laws

OLYMPIA – Washington Gov. Jay Inslee signed three new gun safety measures into law Tuesday. Aside from banning assault weapons, Washington will now have a waiting period and training requirement for all gun purchases. Another new law empowers consumers with the ability to sue firearm manufacturers or retailers for irresponsible conduct.

According to the governor’s office, the new law establishes a mandatory 10-day waiting period for gun purchases. Waiting periods create a buffer between the time of gun purchase and gun acquisition. The 10-day waiting period will also enable local law enforcement to conduct in-depth background checks on all gun buyers, ensuring that ineligible buyers are not able to acquire a firearm.

Gun buyers in Washington will now be required to complete a training course that includes proper storage, handling, use and transportation practices; explanation of self-defense laws; and risk awareness associated with children and people with suicidal thoughts accessing firearms.

The law also increases industry accountability and access to justice for gun violence victims and survivors. It clarifies legal liabilities for gun dealers and manufacturers for knowingly creating, maintaining, or contributing to a public nuisance by designing, selling or marketing products that promote conversion of products into illegal products; market products to children; sell weapons to people prohibited from possessing and purchasing firearms; allow straw purchases; distribute or sell firearms to dealers known to be acting in a dangerous or irresponsible manner.

Violations of this policy can be enforced by the Attorney General. Residents in Washington who are harmed because of irresponsible or dangerous conduct by a firearm manufacturer or dealer can also sue gun manufacturers or retailers under the Consumer Protection Act.

Photo of Gov. Jay Inslee speaking at bill signing ceremony on April 25

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Elkhorn Media Group

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