How Washington State Will Destroy the FFL Industry

Published on February 6, 2024
Duration: 12:14

This video from Washington Gun Law, featuring expert William Kirk, analyzes House Bill 2118, a proposed Washington State law that could devastate the Firearms Licensee (FFL) industry. Kirk details the stringent and costly security, surveillance, and insurance requirements mandated by the bill, arguing they are designed to be unfeasible for most FFLs, including home-based businesses. The analysis includes comparisons to California law and a strong call to action for residents to contact legislators.

Quick Summary

Washington's proposed HB 2118 mandates extensive security upgrades, continuous 24/7 video and audio surveillance with six-year data retention, and $1 million in liability insurance for FFLs. Experts estimate compliance costs could reach $500,000, potentially destroying the FFL industry in the state, particularly impacting home-based businesses which lack exceptions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Washington State Legislation
  2. 01:16HB 2118 Overview and Intent
  3. 02:52California Precedent and Compliance Cost
  4. 03:23Physical Security Requirements for FFLs
  5. 04:55Operational Security During Business Hours
  6. 05:35Operational Security After Business Hours
  7. 06:24Mandatory Video Surveillance Requirements
  8. 08:08Cost Implications of Surveillance
  9. 08:41Mandatory Signage and Chilling Effect
  10. 09:22Record Keeping and Insurance Requirements
  11. 10:14Impact on Home-Based FFLs and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HB 2118 and how will it affect FFLs in Washington State?

HB 2118 is a proposed Washington State law that imposes stringent new security, surveillance, and insurance requirements on licensed firearms dealers (FFLs). Experts like William Kirk of Washington Gun Law argue these mandates are prohibitively expensive and complex, potentially forcing many FFLs, especially small and home-based businesses, to close down.

What are the key security requirements under Washington's HB 2118?

HB 2118 mandates physical security upgrades like bars or security screens on all exterior doors and windows, plus a monitored alarm system. It also requires firearms to be secured during business hours and locked in a safe or vault after hours, with no exceptions for home-based FFLs.

What are the video surveillance requirements of HB 2118?

The bill requires FFLs to install a continuous 24/7 video surveillance system recording at a minimum of 15 frames per second, capturing audio inside, and covering all firearm display areas, points of sale, and entry/exit points. Recordings must be stored securely for at least six years.

What is the estimated cost of compliance with HB 2118 for FFLs?

The cost of compliance is estimated to be extremely high. The video surveillance system alone, including servers for six years of data, could cost $150,000-$200,000. Combined with security retrofits and a $1 million liability insurance policy, the total investment could reach half a million dollars, crippling most FFLs.

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Washington Gun Law

View all →