OLYMPIA, Wash. – Governor Bob Ferguson has signed a new bill into law aimed at reducing gun violence in Washington. The legislation introduces a structured permit-to-purchase system for firearms, enhancing background checks and safety training.
Governor Ferguson emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Gun violence in Washington state breaks apart too many families and kills too many children.” He highlighted the bill as a crucial step toward saving lives and acknowledged the efforts of state legislators and advocates involved in the process.
The bill requires individuals to obtain a permit from the Washington State Patrol before purchasing a firearm. It also mandates live fire training as part of the safety requirements. The centralized background check system will be managed by the Washington State Patrol, which will issue permits within 30-60 days, depending on residency status.
State Representative Liz Berry, the bill’s prime sponsor, shared her personal connection to the issue. “I am the mom of two young kids and I am someone who has lost someone I love to gun violence,” she said. Berry emphasized the transformative impact of the bill and the continued need for advocacy.
The bill passed the House with a 57-39 vote and the Senate with a 29-19 vote. It includes provisions for recording firearm transfers, retaining and destroying purchase applications, and reporting requirements for permits and concealed pistol licenses. The legislation also outlines a fee structure for background checks and permits, with fees deposited into the state firearms background check system account.
During the session Spokane County Sheriff John Nowells expressed strong opposition to the bill, stating, “It’s an affront to me.” He believes the bill represents government overreach and could make it more difficult for law-abiding citizens to possess firearms. “This is not going to do anything but make it more difficult for law-abiding citizens to lawfully possess firearms,” Nowells said.
Nowells also highlighted concerns about the financial burden the bill could impose on low-income individuals. “It’s just making it more expensive and more difficult,” he said, adding that these individuals might need firearms the most. “These people are exposed to more crime, more violence, and now the state is making it even more difficult for them to protect themselves.”
The new law will take effect on May 1, 2027, unless specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2025, which would render it null and void.
