Published on Apr 01, 2019

Bill aims to standardize firearm removal associated with protection orders

Contact: Sharon Swanson, Shannon McClelland

HB 1786, sponsored by Rep. Laurie Jinkins (D–Tacoma), aims to create a unified standard for firearm removal when an order of protection is granted. The bill states the following:

  • When a protective order requires surrender of firearms, dangerous weapons, and any concealed pistol license (CPL), the surrender must occur immediately;
  • Law enforcement is required to serve any protective order requiring surrender of firearms, CPL, or dangerous weapons. The officer accepting surrender must issue a receipt for all surrendered weapons; and
  • A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm in the second degree if the person possesses a firearm during any period the person is subject to a protection order, restraining order, or no-contact order that:
    • The court entered after notice and an opportunity to respond;
    • Restrains the person from harassing, stalking, or threatening the protected person or the person's or the protected person's child; and
    • Includes an order requiring the person to surrender all firearms and prohibiting the person from accessing, obtaining, or possessing firearms.

HB 1786 passed the House 56-42. The bill passed out of its Senate policy committee and is now in the Rules Committee awaiting floor action.

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