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Bill

SB 5747

Concerning projectile stun guns.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Boehnke and 4 co-sponsors

Washington bill establishing legal standards for civilian and law enforcement possession and use of projectile stun guns to clarify current regulatory gaps.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · SB 5747

Legislative bill overview

SB 5747 addresses the regulation and use of projectile stun guns (also called conducted energy weapons or CEWs like Tasers) in Washington state. The bill appears to establish standards for when and how these devices can be legally possessed and used by both law enforcement and civilians.

Why is this important

Projectile stun guns occupy a gray area in many states' weapons laws, and clarifying their legal status affects public safety policy, law enforcement practices, and individual rights to self-defense tools. As these devices become more accessible to civilians, legislators must balance concerns about misuse against legitimate self-defense applications.

Potential points of contention

  • Civilian access vs. public safety: Disagreement over whether civilians should have easy access to stun guns, given risks of accidental injury, escalation in conflicts, or use against vulnerable populations
  • Law enforcement accountability: Questions about whether the bill adequately addresses concerns about police use of CEWs, including on vulnerable individuals or in situations that don't warrant lethal-force alternatives
  • Definition and consistency: What exactly qualifies as a "projectile stun gun" versus other weapons, and whether regulations align with federal law and neighboring states' approaches

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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