Sent this today. Lots of us would like to see this pass....for everyone.
Representative Jinkins,
I’m writing you in regards to HB1561, a bill that would allow short barreled rifles to be owned by individuals in Washington who are in compliance with federal law. As a police officer and a firearms instructor for my department and other local agencies, I’d like to give you my perspective on how this bill would affect law enforcement if passed.
While short barreled weapons are authorized in Washington State for on duty law enforcement officers, they must be purchased by their agency. Unfortunately most agencies in our state who authorize officers to carry rifles cannot afford to purchase those firearms for their employees, budgets are tight. This leaves the burden on the individual officer to provide this valuable equipment. The rifle is more precise, easier to shoot accurately and has very little recoil. We encourage officers to use rifles during building searches because the high speed, lightweight projectile breaks up when passing through an intermediate barrier such as interior wall board. These factors make the rifle the safest weapon system we employ, especially for our members who are smaller of stature.
Currently individual officers are governed by the same firearms purchasing laws as civilians, and rightfully so. If we want a rifle in our car it has to be a full length weapon. Our patrol vehicles are shrinking in our efforts to improve fuel economy. The interiors are cramped with computers, printers, radios, GPS systems and first aid gear. There is very little room for a full length rifle and, if we can fit one between the seats, it is difficult to get out in a hurry if it is needed. A reduction in even 4-5” in length would make for a much more accessible tool that we depend on to protect ourselves and others.
I know the access to weapons is a very hot issue these days. From a law enforcement standpoint, I do not want to see firearms in the hands of criminals or the unstable. Luckily, short barreled rifles are rarely used illegally. Current federal law would require background checks and fingerprinting. The Chief Law Enforcement Officer in the jurisdiction in which the owner lived would have to sign off on their possession. There is also an added cost associated with the federal tax stamp that is required to purchase the firearm. These factors make the ownership of a short barreled rifle a commitment and an investment that motivate individuals to keep them secure. Finding stats on crime committed with these federally registered weapons is difficult because it is extremely rare.
In closing, please give this bill your support and encourage others to do so.
Thank you,