FINAL BILL REPORT

ESB 5083

C 148 L 04

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Recognizing concealed weapon licenses issued by states that recognize Washington's concealed pistol license.

Sponsors: Senators Stevens, Benton, Mulliken, Roach, Oke, Esser, Swecker and T. Sheldon.

Senate Committee on Judiciary

House Committee on Judiciary

Background: Except in a person's home or place of business, a person cannot carry a concealed pistol without a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). A CPL is valid for five years. A person is ineligible for a CPL if he or she: (a) is otherwise ineligible to possess a firearm; (b) has been ordered to forfeit a firearm within one year before filing an application to carry a pistol concealed on his or her person; (c) is under 21 years of age; (d) is subject to a court order or injunction regarding firearms; (e) is free on bond or personal recognizance pending trial, appeal, or sentencing for a felony offense; (f) has an outstanding warrant for his or her arrest from any court of competent jurisdiction for a felony or misdemeanor; or (g) has had his or her CPL revoked. The states of Alaska, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Montana, Utah, Vermont, and Virginia currently recognize Washington CPLs.

Summary: Persons with valid CPLs from states that recognize Washington CPLs may carry a concealed pistol in Washington in conformity with Washington law if the licensing state: (1) does not issue CPLs to persons under the age of 21, and (2) requires mental health and fingerprint based background checks for all persons who apply for a CPL. This provision only applies to license holders who are not current Washington residents. The Attorney General publishes a list of states whose licenses are recognized in Washington.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate       48  0

House       93  2    (House amended)

Senate       48  0    (Senate concurred)

Effective: June 10, 2004