The proposed bill aims to enhance public safety in Washington State by establishing financial responsibility requirements for individuals purchasing or possessing firearms. It introduces a new section to chapter 9.41 RCW, mandating that individuals must be insured under a firearm liability policy, self-insured, or covered by a certificate of deposit to legally acquire or possess a firearm. The bill specifies minimum coverage amounts and requires separate policies or bonds for each firearm. It also amends RCW 9.41.090 to include proof of compliance with these financial responsibility requirements as a condition for firearm purchases and establishes penalties for failing to provide proof when requested by law enforcement or dealers, classifying such failures as civil infractions.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 43.24 RCW, detailing the process for depositing cash or securities with the Department of Licensing to meet financial responsibility requirements, and creates a firearm financial responsibility account to manage these deposits. It also mandates that firearm range operators carry a general liability insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per incident, classifying violations of this requirement as misdemeanors. The bill outlines the distribution of earnings from the treasury income account, including the insertion of the firearm financial responsibility account among eligible accounts. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, with specific sections having different effective dates and expiration provisions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.41.090