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 HB 1562, detailing new firearm rights disqualifiers in Washington State effective July 23, 2023. The law expands disqualifications beyond felonies and domestic violence to include offenses like stalking, cyber harassment, animal cruelty, and multiple DUIs, while also clarifying firearm rights restoration timelines. Kirk emphasizes the law is not retroactive, applying only to offenses committed on or after its effective date.

Quick Summary

Effective July 23, 2023, Washington State's HB 1562 expands firearm disqualifiers to include any offense designated as domestic violence, stalking, cyberstalking, cyber harassment, second-degree animal cruelty, and multiple DUIs within seven years. The law is not retroactive and clarifies firearm rights restoration timelines.

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 new offenses can lead to losing firearm rights in Washington State under HB 1562?

Effective July 23, 2023, Washington State's HB 1562 adds several offenses that can lead to losing firearm rights. These include any crime designated as domestic violence, stalking, cyberstalking, cyber harassment, second-degree animal cruelty, and second or subsequent DUI offenses within seven years.

Is Washington State's HB 1562 retroactive?

No, HB 1562 is not retroactive. The law applies only to offenses committed on or after its effective date of July 23, 2023. Actions taken before this date will be evaluated under the laws in effect at the time they occurred.

How long must one wait to restore firearm rights in Washington State?

Generally, restoring firearm rights in Washington State requires a minimum wait of 7 years. This typically involves completing any probation period (usually 2 years) and remaining crime-free for an additional 5 years after the case is closed.

What are the existing grounds for losing firearm rights in Washington State?

Under RCW 9.41.040, existing grounds for losing firearm rights in Washington State include felony convictions, specific domestic violence offenses, findings of insanity, and involuntary mental health commitments.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Washington Gun Law

View all →