Washington's Price of Freedom Just Went Up

Published on February 27, 2026
Duration: 7:05

This video from Washington Gun Law, presented by William Kirk, details how House Bill 2521 and House Bill 1132 are set to increase the cost of firearm ownership and background checks in Washington State. Kirk explains the legislative maneuvers used to pass these bills and their potential financial impact on citizens seeking to exercise their Second Amendment rights. The content is highly informative for Washington residents concerned about firearm legislation.

Quick Summary

House Bill 2521 in Washington State removes the $18 cap on firearm background check fees, allowing the Washington State Patrol to charge an amount necessary to cover administrative costs. This change, along with HB 1132's permit to purchase program, is expected to significantly increase the cost of firearm ownership and access to Second Amendment rights.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction & Securite Gun Club
  2. 00:45"Price of Freedom Just Went Up" Overview
  3. 01:07House Bill 2521 Explained
  4. 01:39Legislative Cutoff Date Impact
  5. 01:57Rule Suspension for HB 2521
  6. 02:50Amending RCW 43.43.580
  7. 03:23New Background Check Fee Structure
  8. 03:43Projected Cost Increases & California Example
  9. 04:21Suspending Rules to Price Out Rights
  10. 04:49Financial Deficit & Fund Diversion
  11. 05:26House Bill 1132 & Permit to Purchase
  12. 06:06HB 2521 in Senate & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is House Bill 2521 in Washington State?

House Bill 2521 amends RCW 43.43.580 to remove the $18 cap on firearm background check fees. The new fee will be set to cover the Washington State Patrol's costs for administering the background check system, potentially leading to significant price increases for firearm purchasers.

How are firearm background check fees changing in Washington?

Previously capped at $18, the fees for firearm background checks in Washington are now uncapped under HB 2521. The cost will be determined by the actual expenses incurred by the Washington State Patrol in administering the system, meaning fees can increase over time.

What is the purpose of House Bill 1132 in Washington?

House Bill 1132 pertains to the permit to purchase program for firearms, which is slated to take effect in May 2027. Concerns have been raised that funds generated from increased background check fees may be used to subsidize this program.

Why did Washington legislators suspend rules for HB 2521?

Legislators suspended rules to pass HB 2521 after the official legislative cutoff date. This allowed the bill to proceed directly to a House floor vote and pass along party lines, bypassing standard readings and committee reviews.

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