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Bill

Bill

HB 1776

Providing reimbursement of firearm background check fees.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Suzanne Schmidt and 1 co-sponsor

Washington state would reimburse firearm background check fees, shifting costs from gun purchasers to state taxpayers.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1776

Legislative bill overview

HB 1776 would provide state reimbursement for firearm background check fees in Washington. The bill appears to shift the financial burden of conducting federally-mandated background checks from individual purchasers to the state government. This represents a policy change in how background check costs are distributed.

Why is this important

Background checks are required under federal law for all firearm purchases through licensed dealers, but states vary in how they fund and implement these checks. If Washington currently charges fees to purchasers, this bill would eliminate that direct cost to buyers, potentially affecting firearm accessibility and state budgets. The reimbursement mechanism could involve significant recurring state expenditures depending on purchase volume.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: The bill requires state funding for background checks currently paid by purchasers; fiscal impact depends on annual firearm transaction volume and current fee amounts
  • Policy philosophy on gun costs: Disagreement over whether firearm purchase costs should be subsidized by taxpayers versus borne by individual buyers
  • Second Amendment framing: Supporters may argue fees create barriers to constitutional rights; opponents may view them as appropriate user fees or deterrents

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

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