FINAL BILL REPORT

                           ESB 6057

                          C 190 L 94

                      SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

Brief Description:  Strengthening restrictions on aliens carrying firearms.

SPONSORS: Senator Ludwig

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

BACKGROUND:

It is a misdemeanor for any person who is not a citizen, or who has not declared his or her intention to become a citizen, to possess a firearm, unless the person has obtained an alien license certificate from the Department of Licensing (DOL). 

DOL cannot issue such a license until the consul who represents the country of the alien has certified that the alien is a responsible person.  According to DOL, some consuls conduct a "background check" on the alien and forward such information to the department. 

The cost of the license is $15. 

SUMMARY:

The requirements for obtaining an alien firearm license are modified.  It is a class C felony for an alien to possess a firearm without an alien firearm license.  The cost of an alien firearm license fee is raised to $25, and the license must be renewed every four years.

DOL may issue a license if a consul has:  (1) given DOL a certified copy of the alien's criminal history indicating the alien is not ineligible under Washington law to own, possess, or control a firearm; and (2) attested the alien is a responsible person.  

However, if the alien has resided in the state for at least two years, and (1) is from a country without a consul in this state, or (2) if the consul fails, within 90 days after the alien's request, to provide the certified copy of the alien's criminal history or attestation that the alien is a responsible person, DOL still may issue an alien firearm license if certain conditions are met.  In such cases, DOL must ask the local law enforcement agency of the jurisdiction in which the alien resides to complete a background check to verify the alien is not ineligible to own, possess, or control a firearm.  The law enforcement agency has 30 days in which to complete the check, unless the alien does not have a valid Washington driver's license or identification card, in which case the law enforcement agency has 60 days to complete the check.

A declared intention to become a United States citizen will no longer qualify an alien for an alien firearm license or a concealed pistol license.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

Senate    47   0

House     97   1    (House amended)

Senate    46   0    (Senate concurred)

EFFECTIVE:June 9, 1994