All the New Ways Washington State Can Take Your Guns Starting Next Month

Published on June 30, 2023
Duration: 9:06

William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, provides an expert analysis of Washington State's HB 1562, effective July 23, 2023. The law introduces significant new grounds for the revocation of firearm rights beyond existing felony and domestic violence disqualifiers. This includes expanded definitions of domestic violence offenses, convictions for stalking and cyber harassment, unlawful firearm aiming or display, animal cruelty, and multiple DUI offenses. The expert also details the process and waiting periods for restoring firearm rights, emphasizing that the law is not retroactive.

Quick Summary

Washington State's HB 1562, effective July 23, 2023, introduces new grounds for firearm rights revocation. These include expanded domestic violence offenses, stalking, cyber harassment, unlawful firearm aiming/display, animal cruelty, and multiple DUIs. The law is not retroactive, and restoration of rights typically requires a 7-year waiting period.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to HB 1562
  2. 01:01Current Disqualification Grounds
  3. 02:19New Disqualifier: Expanded Domestic Violence
  4. 03:31Stalking and Cyber Harassment
  5. 04:22Unlawful Aiming and Display
  6. 05:02Animal Cruelty and Multiple DUIs
  7. 06:23Violating Forfeiture Orders
  8. 07:36Restoration of Firearm Rights
  9. 08:03Ex Post Facto and Implementation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington State's HB 1562 and when does it take effect?

Washington State's HB 1562 is a new law that introduces additional ways the state can revoke firearm rights. It becomes effective on July 23, 2023, adding to existing disqualifiers like felonies and domestic violence offenses.

What new offenses can lead to losing firearm rights under Washington's HB 1562?

HB 1562 expands disqualifiers to include any offense designated as domestic violence, stalking, cyberstalking, cyber harassment, unlawful aiming or display of a firearm, second-degree animal cruelty, and multiple DUI offenses within seven years.

How long must one wait to restore firearm rights in Washington State after a disqualifying offense?

Generally, restoring firearm rights in Washington State requires a minimum 7-year waiting period. This typically involves completing 2 years of probation and then remaining crime-free for 5 years after the case is closed.

Is Washington State's HB 1562 retroactive?

No, Washington State's HB 1562 is not retroactive. It only applies to offenses that were committed on or after the law's effective date of July 23, 2023.

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