Washington RCW 9.41.290 broadly preempts local firearm regulation, reserving authority over firearm laws to the state legislature with very limited exceptions.
Under RCW 9.41.290, the state of Washington fully occupies and preempts the entire field of firearms regulation within state boundaries. Cities, counties, towns, and other municipalities may not enact or enforce laws related to firearms registration, licensing, possession, purchase, sale, transfer, transportation, ammunition, or component parts. Only the state legislature may regulate these matters, ensuring uniform firearm laws statewide. Limited exceptions allow local restrictions on discharge of firearms within municipal limits and possession in stadiums or convention centers. Local ordinances inconsistent with state law are void and unenforceable.
Local ordinances violating preemption are unenforceable and may be challenged in court. Cities adopting invalid firearm laws face injunctions and civil liability under RCW 9.41.0975.
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Bellingham, WA
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