HB1240 imposes strict regulations on assault weapons, defining them as specific types of firearms with particular features. These rules prohibit the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or offer for sale of assault weapons, except for specific exceptions like sales to law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, and out-of-state individuals. Inherited assault weapons can be kept under certain conditions. Violations of these regulations are considered gross misdemeanors under the Consumer Protection Act. The Attorney General can issue investigative demands for potential violations, and recipients can request extensions or modifications. The Attorney General is restricted from sharing investigation information with criminal law enforcement agencies unless a search warrant requires it.
The Washington State Senate passed HB1240 on April 18, 2023 by a vote of 28 to 21. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms is protected by the U.S. Constitution, particularly in the 2nd, 9th, and 10th Amendments, and should not be infringed. HB1240 is a gross infringement on that right.