New Gun Purchase Permit Law in Washington

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, recently signed a new law that requires permits for gun purchases. This legislation, known as House Bill 1163, will take effect on May 1, 2027.

The new permit requirement entails two main points: first, gun buyers must pay a fee to obtain the permit, and second, they need to complete a Certified Firearms Safety Training Program to qualify for it. After meeting these conditions, residents of Washington will receive a permit valid for five years.

Critics of the bill have raised concerns, noting that Washington already implements universal background checks for all firearm purchases. They point out that the state’s background check system requires proof of completion of a firearms safety course, a detail some believe makes the new legislation unnecessary. However, Ferguson remains steadfast in his stance.

“Gun violence in Washington state tears apart too many families and claims too many young lives,” he stated.

Mike Bloomberg, associated with Everytown for Gun Safety, praised the new legislation, calling it a “life-saving” measure when it passed in April along party lines without any Republican support.

Washington has multiple existing gun regulations, including universal background checks, a 10-day waiting period for firearm purchases, and various policies concerning assault weapons and gun storage. Despite the extensive regulations already in place, Democratic state legislator Liz Berry, who sponsored Bill 1163, indicated there are discussions for even more gun control measures in the future.

She mentioned, “This bill is transformative for our state, and we’re not done yet. There’s more to accomplish.”