Washington Governor Jay Inslee has signed one of the most aggressive gun-control packages in the nation —and it includes an assault weapons ban. “Inslee signed a trio of gun control bills, one of which immediately bans the manufacture, purchase or importation of so-called assault weapons,” Fox News reports.
“Party safely tonight,” the governor told supporters after signing the bills.
From Fox News:
Inslee and Attorney General Bob Ferguson, both Democrats, pushed for the gun control package.
With the governor’s signature, Washington becomes the 10th state to adopt an “assault weapons” ban.
“No one needs an AR-15 to protect your family,” Inslee said while surrounded by family members of shooting victims. “You only need it to kill other families.”
Earlier this session, lawmakers passed a bill that mandates safety training and requires a 10-day waiting period to buy a gun, as well as a bill that requires gun makers and dealers to take “reasonable steps” to keep their products out of the hands of “dangerous individuals.”
The bill that requires safety training and a waiting period takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.
“We lead the country in so many ways, and we are leading on this,” Inslee said. “I’m not sure any state has ever taken three steps on one day.”
The Washington State Governor’s Office shared a message from the White House.
Thank you, @PressSec, for recognizing the efforts of @GovInslee and so many others who are willing to stand up to the gun lobby and strengthen the safety of Washington communities. https://t.co/TXHeArCmof #waleg
— Washington State Governor’s Office (@WAStateGov) April 25, 2023