HOUSE BILL REPORT

SB 5739

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.

As Passed House:

April 1, 2009

Title: An act relating to renewing a concealed pistol license by members of the armed forces.

Brief Description: Revising provisions relating to renewing a concealed pistol license by members of the armed forces.

Sponsors: Senators King, Hobbs, Holmquist, Kastama, Swecker, Sheldon, Morton, Shin, Berkey and Honeyford.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Judiciary: 3/18/09, 3/19/09 [DP].

Floor Activity

Passed House: 4/1/09, 97-0.

Brief Summary of Bill

Allows a member of the armed forces to renew a concealed pistol license that expired while the person was serving outside of the state, without paying the $10 late fee, if the person applies for renewal within 90 days of returning to the state.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 11 members: Representatives Pedersen, Chair; Goodman, Vice Chair; Rodne, Ranking Minority Member; Shea, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Flannigan, Kelley, Kirby, Ormsby, Roberts, Ross and Warnick.

Staff: Edie Adams (786-7180)

Background:

It is unlawful for a person to carry a pistol concealed on his or her person unless the person has a valid concealed pistol license. In order to obtain a concealed pistol license, a person must apply with the local law enforcement agency and undergo a fingerprint-based background check. A concealed pistol license must be issued if the person is not ineligible to possess a firearm under state law and if the person meets other eligibility requirements.

A concealed pistol license is valid for a period of five years. The fee for an initial concealed pistol license is $36; the fee for renewing a concealed pistol license is $32. An application for renewal may be made up to 90 days before or after the expiration date of the license. Renewal after the expiration of a concealed pistol license carries a $10 late penalty in addition to the renewal fee. A person may not renew a concealed pistol license more than 90 days after its expiration date. Instead, the person must apply for an original license.

Summary of Bill:

A member of the armed forces who is serving outside the state when his or her concealed pistol license expires may renew the license within 90 days of returning to the state and is not subject to the $10 late renewal fee. The person must provide to the Department of Licensing, at the time of renewal, a copy of the original order of deployment or assignment for out-of-state military service and a copy of the person's discharge, or order of deployment or assignment back to this state.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) The bill allows military personnel who have been stationed out of state to renew their concealed pistol licenses beyond the current 90-day requirement. The main purpose of the bill is not the waiving of the late fee, but allowing military personnel to renew their licenses without having to apply for a new permit.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Senator King, prime sponsor; and Dale Movins, Veterans Legislative Coalition.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.