Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2118

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/19/24  
Refer
1/24/24  
Engrossed
2/12/24  
Refer
2/14/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Enrolled
3/7/24  
Chaptered
3/26/24  

Caption

Protecting the public from gun violence by establishing additional requirements for the business operations of licensed firearms dealers.

Impact

If passed, HB2118 would significantly alter how firearms dealers can conduct their operations under state law, potentially leading to a decrease in gun-related incidents. The bill emphasizes the necessity of thorough background checks and compliance with safety measures, which could impact the ease of purchasing firearms. By tightening regulations, proponents believe that the bill would facilitate better management of firearm sales, thus enhancing public safety and reducing gun violence in communities across the state.

Summary

House Bill 2118 aims to enhance public safety by imposing additional operational requirements on licensed firearms dealers. The bill is designed to address concerns related to gun violence by ensuring that dealers adhere to stricter regulations, thereby potentially reducing the risk of firearms falling into the wrong hands. The legislation covers various aspects of firearm sales and transfers, seeking to strengthen accountability among dealers and raise the standards for business operations within the firearms industry.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2118 reflects a notable divide among lawmakers and constituents. Supporters of the bill argue that these regulations are essential to curb gun violence and protect citizens, viewing the measures as both necessary and justified. Conversely, opponents express concerns about the impact on lawful gun ownership and the potential for over-regulation of a constitutional right. This conflict underscores broader national conversations about gun rights and public safety, revealing deep-seated views on both sides.

Contention

Key points of contention include debates over the balance between public safety and individual rights. Critics of the bill warn that overly stringent regulations could infringe on the rights of lawful gun owners and create unnecessary burdens for licensed dealers. The discussions surrounding the bill have highlighted the complexities involved in legislative approaches to gun control, emphasizing differing philosophies on how best to address the issue of gun violence while respecting constitutional freedoms and local governance.

Companion Bills

WA SB6266

Crossfiled Protecting the public from gun violence by establishing additional requirements for the business operations of licensed firearms dealers.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5099

Protecting the public from gun violence by establishing additional requirements for the business operations of licensed firearms dealers.

WA SB6266

Protecting the public from gun violence by establishing additional requirements for the business operations of licensed firearms dealers.

WA SB5078

Protecting public safety by establishing duties of firearm industry members.

WA HB1130

Protecting public safety by establishing duties of firearm industry members.

WA HB1152

Enhancing public safety by establishing secure storage requirements for firearms in vehicles and residences.

WA HB1063

Establishing a new chapter for the licensing and regulation of businesses providing earned wage access services.

WA HB2038

Establishing the youth behavioral health account and funding the account through the imposition of a business and occupation additional tax on the operation of social media platforms.

WA HB1240

Establishing firearms-related safety measures to increase public safety.

WA SB5799

Establishing the youth behavioral health account and funding the account through the imposition of a business and occupation additional tax on the operation of social media platforms.

WA SB5193

Establishing firearms-related safety measures to increase public safety.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.