Washington's Price of Freedom Just Went Up

Published on February 27, 2026
Duration: 7:05

William Kirk of Washington Gun Law explains how the Washington State Legislature bypassed standard procedures to pass HB 2521, which removes the cap on firearm background check fees. This change, effective immediately, allows the state to charge fees reasonably calculated to cover costs, potentially leading to significant price increases for firearm purchases, permits, and concealed carry licenses. Kirk highlights concerns that these increased fees, coupled with a projected state deficit, may be used to fund other programs like the 'Permit to Purchase' initiative (HB 1132), effectively pricing citizens out of their Second Amendment rights.

Quick Summary

Washington's HB 2521 removes the $18 cap on firearm background check fees, allowing costs to increase based on actual expenses. This legislative maneuver bypassed standard procedures, raising concerns about pricing citizens out of their Second Amendment rights and potentially funding other state initiatives.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Washington Gun Law TV
  2. 00:17Rules Being Ignored by Legislature
  3. 00:45Disarming Civilians & Bill Update
  4. 01:07Background Check Costs & HB 2521
  5. 01:39February 17th Cutoff Date Explained
  6. 01:57Suspension of Rules Post-Cutoff
  7. 02:18How the House Suspended Rules
  8. 02:50Amending RCW 43.43.580
  9. 03:23New Language: Increased Costs
  10. 03:43Background Checks Will Increase
  11. 04:21Suspending Rules to Price Out Rights
  12. 04:49Financial Mismanagement & Raiding Funds
  13. 05:26HB 1132: Permit to Purchase
  14. 06:06HB 2521 in Senate Ways & Means

Frequently Asked Questions

What is House Bill 2521 in Washington?

House Bill 2521 in Washington State removes the previous $18 cap on firearm background check fees. This allows the state to charge fees that are reasonably calculated to cover the actual costs of administering the background check system, potentially leading to higher costs for firearm purchases.

How did HB 2521 pass the Washington legislature?

HB 2521 passed the Washington House of Representatives by suspending the standard legislative rules after the official cutoff date. This allowed the bill to be brought directly to the floor for a vote, which then passed along party lines.

What are the implications of HB 2521 for Washington gun owners?

The implications of HB 2521 include potentially significant increases in the cost of firearm background checks. This could also affect the cost of obtaining a permit to purchase a firearm or a concealed carry license, as these processes also involve background checks.

Why is the state suspending rules for bills like HB 2521?

According to Washington Gun Law, the suspension of rules for bills like HB 2521 allows the legislature to pass legislation beyond established deadlines. This is often done to advance specific agendas, such as increasing fees for firearm-related transactions, potentially to fund other state programs.

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