Bill > HB1139

This bill aims to enhance public safety and deter unlawful firearm possession by increasing criminal penalties and modifying how firearm-related offenses are classified and scored in the state's sentencing system. The bill makes several key changes, including classifying unlawful possession of a firearm (both first and second-degree offenses) as a violent offense, which impacts how prior convictions are calculated in an offender's criminal history. When an individual is convicted of unlawful firearm possession, the bill requires counting two points for each prior juvenile adjudication and adult conviction for similar firearm possession offenses, which can increase the severity of sentencing. The legislation also mandates that police officers must arrest individuals who have unlawfully possessed a firearm, and it adds unlawful firearm possession to the list of offenses that can trigger more stringent sentencing guidelines. The bill's purpose is explicitly stated as reducing recidivism, deterring unlawful firearm possession, and enhancing penalties for such offenses. Some provisions of the bill are set to expire on January 1, 2026, suggesting it is intended as a temporary measure to address specific public safety concerns related to firearm possession.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1139&Year=2025&Initiative=false