The bill amends Washington state law to enhance the regulation of firearm possession for individuals with mental health issues, particularly those who have been convicted of certain offenses or found not guilty by reason of insanity. Key provisions include a requirement for courts to notify these individuals about the necessity to surrender their firearms to local law enforcement and to forward relevant personal information to the Department of Licensing and the Washington State Patrol within three judicial days following a conviction or commitment. Additionally, if charges are dismissed due to incompetency but there is a history of violent acts, the same notification requirements apply. The bill also establishes a structured process for individuals who have been involuntarily committed to petition for the restoration of their firearm rights, contingent upon meeting specific criteria.

Moreover, the bill introduces new legal language that mandates courts to issue orders prohibiting firearm possession upon the dismissal of charges due to incompetency, along with notifying defendants of this prohibition. It clarifies the criteria for competency restoration and emphasizes the evaluation of a defendant's history of violent acts when determining firearm possession rights. The legislation also addresses unlawful possession of firearms, specifying conditions under which individuals may be prohibited from firearm possession, particularly for those under 18 years of age. Additionally, it allows for the release of mental health information to authorized personnel while ensuring compliance with privacy laws, thereby enhancing public safety through better monitoring and information sharing among relevant authorities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.41.041, 70.02.260
Engrossed Bill: 9.41.041, 70.02.260
Bill as Passed Legislature: 9.41.041
Session Law: 9.41.041