Bill > HB1152

This bill enhances public safety by establishing comprehensive secure storage requirements for firearms in vehicles and residences, with detailed specifications for how firearms must be stored to prevent unauthorized access. For vehicles, the bill mandates that pistols must be unloaded, stored in an opaque, locked, hard-sided container that is concealed from view and located in a locked vehicle, while rifles and shotguns have similar requirements with additional provisions for soft-sided containers that require a trigger lock. In residences, firearms must be securely stored when not being carried or directly controlled, which means either using a tamper-resistant mechanical lock to render the firearm inoperable or storing it in a locked gun safe out of plain sight. The bill introduces graduated enforcement penalties based on the consequences of unauthorized firearm access, ranging from civil infractions to felonies depending on whether the unauthorized access results in injury, death, or criminal activity. The legislation also tasks the Washington Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention with educating the public about secure firearm storage requirements and includes several exceptions for specific scenarios such as law enforcement, military personnel, and lawful hunting activities. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving gun owners and the public time to prepare for the new requirements.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1152&Year=2025&Initiative=false