The writer of the letter, “Poorly written initiative would entrap many” claims the initiative would require background checks in a variety of situations. However a plain reading of the text shows the opposite:
Loaning a gun to a relative while hunting on private property — item 3(f)(v) exempts people who loan a gun to another “while hunting if the hunting is legal in all places where the person to whom the firearm is transferred possesses the firearm.” I presume it is legal to hunt on one’s own property, but if not, then of course they should not be hunting there in the first place.
A gun safety student hands his gun to an instructor — item 3(f) exempts transfers at “established shooting ranges,” so classes held at firing ranges, where the student can actually practice firing their gun, are allowed.
Transferring a gun to TSA agents when flying — item 3(d) exempts transfers to “any federal official,” and TSA agents are federal officials.
You receive a pistol from your great-uncle’s estate — item 3(b) exempts antiques from the background check requirement.
He also exaggerates when he claims that one misstep will turn law-abiding citizens into “instant felons”; according to section 9, the first offense is a gross misdemeanor. It only goes up to class C felony upon the second offense.
Don’t believe me? Go online at http://sos.wa.gov/_assets/elections/initiatives/FinalText_483.pdf and read the actual text.
Rosemary Nguyen
Lake Stevens
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