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Bill

Bill

SB 5535

Concerning rights of individuals to bear arms.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Leonard Christian and 1 co-sponsor

Washington bill SB 5535 addresses Second Amendment rights; specific provisions unknown as bill enters initial committee review phase.

First reading, referred to Law & Justice.
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Bill Summary · SB 5535

Legislative bill overview

SB 5535 is a Washington state bill concerning Second Amendment rights and the right to bear arms. The bill was introduced on January 28, 2025, and referred to the Law & Justice Committee for initial review. Specific provisions are not yet available in public records, as the bill is in its earliest legislative stage.

Why is this important

Washington state has implemented some of the nation's stricter gun regulations in recent years, including universal background checks and extreme risk protection orders. Any bill addressing "rights to bear arms" could significantly impact existing firearms regulations, public safety policies, or constitutional protections in the state—affecting millions of residents and existing law enforcement practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of Second Amendment interpretation: Whether the bill expands existing gun rights, challenges current restrictions, or clarifies constitutional protections will determine support from gun rights advocates versus gun safety advocates
  • Interaction with existing Washington law: The bill's relationship to established regulations (background checks, waiting periods, magazine limits) remains unclear and will likely generate debate
  • Public safety vs. individual liberty: Disagreement over whether expanded gun rights increase or decrease public safety, particularly in urban versus rural communities

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

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