For Immediate Release: March 2, 2006

Bill allowing qualified retired law enforcement to carry firearms passes Legislature

Olympia - A bill to allow qualified retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms has been approved by the Legislature and is headed for the governor's desk. The Senate unanimously passed the measure today, as the House had done on Feb. 13.
 
Rep. Tom Campbell (R-Roy) introduced House Bill 2951 this session at the request of retired officers to create a firearms training certificate program to allow them to carry a concealed firearm in Washington as well as other destinations in the U.S.
 
Campbell said qualified retired law enforcement officers could provide significant assistance in a criminal situation. "I am proud to have passed this needed legislation enabling retired officers the ability to maintain there weapons and to assist active officers whenever the need should arise," Campbell said. "The measure, in effect, puts more help for our citizens on the streets."
 
Campbell said he expects the governor will sign his bill, making the law effective on June 7, 2006.
 
The bill complies with the 2004 Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act, which authorizes qualified retired law enforcement officers to carry a concealed firearm under certain conditions. Under the bill, the Washington State Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs would develop a firearms certificate form. It would then require the retired officer to meet the standards set by the law, including proficiency to carry a concealed firearm. The application also would require a background check and annual license application.

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For more information, contact Rep. Tom Campbell @ (360) 786-7912