The bill amends existing laws regarding the firearms background check program administered by the Washington State Patrol. It establishes a centralized system for dealers to conduct background checks for firearm sales or transfers, ensuring that the system includes features such as electronic communication, unique identifiers for inquiries, and automated responses regarding the status of transfers. The Washington State Patrol is tasked with conducting thorough checks against various databases to determine an applicant's eligibility to possess a firearm and must notify dealers promptly about the results of these checks.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new fee structure for background checks, which must be set to cover the direct and indirect costs incurred by the Washington State Patrol, replacing the previous cap of eighteen dollars. It also establishes an appeals process for individuals denied a firearm transfer and mandates the creation of a link between the background check system and court records to enhance eligibility assessments. The bill includes provisions for reporting the average time for background check decisions and specifies that all related records are exempt from public inspection. The new sections of the act will expire on May 1, 2027, and take effect on the same date.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.43.580, 9.41.010
Bill as passed Legislature: 43.43.580, 9.41.010
Session law: 43.43.580, 9.41.010