Gun rights rally held at Capitol in Washington

OLYMPIA — About 100 people gathered on the steps of the Capitol to urge lawmakers to protect gun rights.

Lawmakers and others spoke at the rally Friday, emphasizing legislative priorities and speaking against gun-related policies of President Barack Obama, like his recent executive actions to expand background checks to cover more firearms sold at gun shows, and elsewhere.

Most at the rally appeared to be unarmed, but some carried firearms. Others held signs or wore clothing promoting gun rights.

Information handed out at the event identified seven bills in the Legislature this year that advocates at the rally might oppose, including a bill that seeks to create a statewide ammunition tax.

Rep. Matt Shea, R-Spokane Valley, Rep. Elizabeth Scott, R-Monroe, and Rep. David Taylor, R-Moxee, were among those who spoke.

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