Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Judiciary Committee

HB 1066

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background:

Under the state's Explosives Act (Act), the Department of Labor and Industries (Department) regulates the manufacture, storage, sale, purchase, transportation, possession, and use of explosives. No person may conduct any of these activities without being in compliance with the Act. The Department has authority to adopt rules concerning regulation of these activities and to issue the various types of explosives licenses required by the Act.

Black powder is a propellant and can be made with potassium nitrate or sodium nitrate. Black powder designations "Fa" and "Fg" refer to different types of processing and granule size.

Black powder not exceeding five pounds is excluded from the definition of "explosives" unless it is possessed or used for a purpose inconsistent with small arms use or other lawful purpose. Black powder used in muzzle loading firearms may be transported in a private vehicle or stored without restriction in private residences in quantities not to exceed five pounds.

Not more than 25 pounds of black powder may be stored in commercial establishments of which not more than four pounds may be displayed. Quantities of black powder in excess of 25 pounds must be stored in magazines constructed according to Department rules.

Summary of Bill:

Black powder can be transported in a private vehicle in quantities not to exceed 50 pounds if a placard is displayed under rules adopted by the Department.

Black powder can be stored in private residences in amounts exceeding five pounds when the black powder is stored in a secure explosives container and the quantity does not exceed 20 pounds.