What Happens in Washington State If You Are Denied a Firearm Purchase?
In Washington State, if a firearm purchase is denied due to ineligibility, the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) must report this denial to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs within five days. This reporting is mandated by RCW 9.41.114. If a denied purchase is later approved, the FFL must report this subsequent approval within one day. A proposed amendment to RCW 9.41.114, contingent on the State Patrol's background system readiness, would shift the primary reporting duty to the State Patrol and ensure denied applicants receive notice of their right to appeal.











