FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 2410

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:

Felony firearm offenders are persons who have been convicted or found not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI) in this state of certain felony firearm offenses. Upon entering a conviction or finding of NGRI of a felony firearm offense, the court must consider whether to impose a requirement that the person register as a felony firearm offender. In exercising its discretion, the court must consider relevant factors including the person's criminal history, whether or not the person has been previously found NGRI of any offense in any state, and any evidence of the person's propensity for violence that would likely endanger others.

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) must maintain a database of felony firearm offenders. The database is only for law enforcement purposes and is not subject to public disclosure. A person required to register must do so in person with the county sheriff and must renew registration annually. The duty to register continues for four years. Upon expiration of the person's duty to register, the WSP must automatically remove the person's name and information from the registry. A person who has a duty to register and knowingly fails to comply with any of the registration requirements is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.

Summary:

In every case in which a defendant is convicted or found NGRI of a felony firearm offense that was committed in conjunction with a crime involving sexual motivation, a crime against a child under the age of 18, or a serious violent offense, the court must, rather than may, require the person to register as a felony firearm offender.

Votes on Final Passage:

House	94	3
Senate	46	1