The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is preparing for a significant increase in workload following the potential passage of a bill in Olympia that mandates gun buyers obtain a permit before purchasing firearms. Under Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1163, which has already passed the state House, applicants would be required to complete safety training, fingerprinting, and undergo extensive background checks. This new process could potentially affect staffing levels, with WSP estimating that it may need to hire at least 24 additional staff members to manage the expected influx of permit applications.
Last year, WSP processed around 250,000 firearm background checks, and with the permit requirement, that number is likely to rise. The bill, which includes a notable two-background-check protocol for permit holders at the time of purchase, has raised concerns about its implications for individuals seeking firearms for self-defense. Critics cite potential delays that could endanger vulnerable individuals, emphasizing the urgent need for clarity and efficiency in the proposed system. The bill has yet to be scheduled for a public hearing in the Senate Law & Justice Committee.
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