SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5869

BYSenator Williams

Prohibiting the possession and use of electric weapons by the general public.

Senate Committee on Judiciary

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 25, 1987; February 27, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Talmadge, Chairman; Halsan, Vice Chairman; McCaslin, Moore, Nelson, Newhouse.

Senate Staff:Jon Carlson (786-7459)

                  March 18, 1987

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 17, 1987

BACKGROUND:

Stun-guns and similar electronic weapons are becoming increasingly popular with law enforcement agencies and citizens as a non-lethal defensive weapon.  The stun-gun is a small hand- held electronic device powered by a nine-volt battery.  There are two small probes extending from the front (top) approximately two inches apart.  The probes are intended to be pressed into an attacker/arrestee's body so that an electric shock can be delivered to incapacitate the person, without producing permanent injury.  Although the stun-gun is perceived to be an effective, non-lethal defensive weapon for law enforcement officers, there is increasing concern about misuse by citizens and by those engaged in criminal activities. 

SUMMARY:

"Electric weapon" is defined.

Any person who administers a shock with an electric weapon to another person for reasons other than self defense or without the permission of the second person is guilty of a class B felony.

The Criminal Justice Training Commission is required to adopt rules establishing training standards for law enforcement officers using electric weapons.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Brian Judy, National Rifle Association; Ted Cowan, Washington Sportsman's Council; Ed Bourdage, Longview Police Dept.; Virgil Gunning, American Pistol and Rifle Association