Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1799

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

Concerning persons convicted of violent offenses with a firearm.

Impact

If enacted, HB1799 would specifically affect the legal framework regarding firearm possession for individuals with violent offense convictions. The bill could result in changes to the eligibility requirements for firearm ownership and impose additional penalties for violations regarding firearm possession. This shift is intended to align state laws with crime prevention strategies, particularly in reducing gun violence linked to repeat offenders.

Summary

House Bill 1799 addresses individuals convicted of violent offenses who possess a firearm. The bill seeks to modify existing laws related to the possession of firearms by those with violent convictions, potentially imposing stricter regulations. The motivation behind this legislation is to enhance public safety by limiting access to firearms among populations deemed high-risk due to their criminal history.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1799 appears to be somewhat supportive among those advocating for public safety and anti-gun violence measures. Proponents believe that restricting firearm access for individuals with violent backgrounds can lead to decreased crime rates and enhance community safety. However, this perspective faces opposition from gun rights advocates who argue that such restrictions infringe on individual freedoms and may not effectively address the root causes of violence.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions around HB1799 revolves around the balance between public safety and rights protection. Critics argue that laws targeting individuals based solely on past actions could unfairly penalize those who have served their time and are attempting to reintegrate into society. Additionally, there are debates surrounding the effectiveness of such regulations in genuinely reducing gun-related crimes, raising questions about the best approaches to handle firearm access for violent offenders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1161

Concerning persons convicted of violent offenses with firearm enhancements.

WA HB2220

Concerning violent offenses.

WA SB5076

Concerning the authority to hold a person without bail until their first appearance on a domestic violence or protection order case.

WA HB2054

Concerning bulk purchases and transfers of firearms.

WA HB1751

Concerning siting of sex offender and sexually violent predator facilities.

WA SB5985

Concerning firearms background check program.

WA SB5049

Concerning firearm theft.

WA HB1562

Reducing the risks of lethality and other harm associated with gun violence, gender-based violence, and other types of violence.

WA HB1178

Concerning local government authority to regulate firearms.

WA SB5745

Concerning the use of a stolen firearm.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.