For Immediate Release: March 14, 2006

New law allows retired law enforcement officers to carry firearms
 
Olympia - Gov. Chris Gregoire today signed into law a bill approved by the Legislature to allow qualified retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms.
 
Rep. Tom Campbell (R-Roy) introduced House Bill 2951 this session to allow a firearms training certificate program for retired officers. The certificate will allow them to carry a concealed firearm in Washington as well as other destinations in the U.S. as they travel.
 
"I believe there are many times when a trained law enforcement officer comes a cross a situation where he or she could use their expertise to assist active law enforcement officers who face a situation that needs to be controlled, such as a criminal on the loose," Campbell said. "This new law puts more help for our citizens on the street."
 
The law, which goes into effect in early June, brings Washington into the 2004 Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act. The new law establishes a training program and standards developed by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. Application would require a background check and an annual license application by those who seek certification.

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