The bill amends Washington's firearms laws to enhance the firearms background check program and introduces comprehensive definitions for various firearms-related terms, including "assault weapon," "large capacity magazine," and "semiautomatic assault rifle." It establishes the Washington State Patrol Firearms Background Check Program as the central authority for conducting background checks on all firearm transfers, mandating that dealers utilize this program for purchases and transfers. The bill also outlines procedures for handling applications, including requirements for notifying applicants of denials and reporting these to local law enforcement, while ensuring the confidentiality of mental health information.

Additionally, the bill introduces a fee structure for background checks, capped at eighteen dollars, and establishes an appeals process for individuals denied a firearms transfer. It requires the Washington State Patrol to provide annual reports to the legislature on the processing times for background checks and ensures that all related records remain exempt from public inspection to protect individual privacy. The bill declares an emergency, indicating the urgency of its implementation to enhance public safety and regulatory compliance in firearm ownership and transfers in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.41.049, 9.41.111, 9.41.114, 9.41.350, 43.43.823
Substitute Bill: 9.41.049, 9.41.111, 9.41.114, 9.41.350, 43.43.823, 43.43.580
Engrossed Substitute: 9.41.049, 9.41.111, 9.41.114, 9.41.350, 43.43.823, 43.43.580
Bill as Passed Legislature: 9.41.049, 9.41.111, 9.41.114, 9.41.350, 43.43.823, 43.43.580
Session Law: 9.41.049, 9.41.111, 9.41.114, 9.41.350, 43.43.823, 43.43.580