Washington State Legislature Passes Permit-to-Purchase Firearm Bill

In a significant legislative move, the Washington State House of Representatives approved a controversial permit-to-purchase firearm bill known as Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1163 (E2SHB 1163) over the weekend. The bill, passed along a strict party-line vote of 58-38, is poised to head to the Democrat-controlled State Senate for further consideration.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The new legislation adds several requirements for individuals wishing to purchase firearms, namely:

• Acquisition of a permit issued by the Washington State Patrol.
• Proof of completion of state-sanctioned firearm safety training within the past five years, including a live fire exercise.
• Mandatory safety training requirements for applications for concealed pistol licenses, marking the first such changes in 90 years.

Responses from Lawmakers and Advocates

Advocates for the bill, including its sponsor, Rep. Liz Berry of Seattle, argued that these measures are necessary to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. However, critics, including many gun owners, contend that the legislation may not effectively deter criminal activity, as those intent on illegal use often bypass legal channels.

“We know that this policy works,” stated Rep. Berry. Opponents counter that criminals acquire firearms through various unlawful means, making the measures ineffective.

Many gun owners have taken to social media to express their discontent, asserting that their inherent Right to Bear Arms, as guaranteed by the Second Amendment and further protected by Washington’s state constitution, should not require additional permissions.

Concerns About Constitutional Rights

Concerns about the infringement of constitutional rights were echoed by Rep. Jim Walsh of Grays Harbor, who highlighted the perceived violations of due process and privacy rights under various sections of the Washington State Constitution.

“First, it violates your due process rights. That’s Article 1, Section 3 of the Washington State Constitution,” Walsh argued, emphasizing that these legislative changes could impede citizens’ rights to self-defense.

Political Context and Future Actions

This legislative development occurs amid ongoing scrutiny about the funding activities of the Seattle-based Alliance for Gun Responsibility, a lobbying organization believed to be supported by public funds. Alan Gottlieb, chairman of the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, has called for an investigation into potential misuse of taxpayer dollars to support anti-gun initiatives.

“It is appalling that the billionaire funded Alliance is getting public funding,” Gottlieb stated, advocating for accountability regarding public financing of political agendas.

HB 1163 is set to take effect on November 1, 2026, just ahead of the mid-term elections, prompting heightened political engagement among voters concerned about their gun rights. Activists in Washington State are beginning to organize and strategize their next steps in response to this legislation.

Conclusion

As this bill progresses through the legislative process, it stands to significantly alter the landscape for firearm ownership in Washington State. With passionate advocates on both sides expressing their views, the ongoing dialogue regarding the balance between public safety and constitutional rights is expected to continue.