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I am helping fellow forum member Seattlewingsfan make up a fax to send to the Senate Rules committee. I am thinking that one page of pertinant facts about silencer use and a page with names of people that support the bill will work well. This should work better than e-mails.
Suggestions are appreciated. If you are wiling to include your name/address as a supporter, please PM so I can add your name to the list. Thanks.
Randy
Why Senate Bill 5112 will benefit Washington State residents.
Firearm sound suppressors are legal in the United States. Purchase and possession by civilians and law enforcement is legal in 37 of the states including Washington.
Washington is the only state that allows suppressor possession but prohibits their use on a firearm. RCW 9.41.250(c) prohibits suppressor use by anyone in Washington including the police and military.
Any civilian purchasing a suppressor is required to submit an application with the local sheriff's signature, pass a background check by the FBI and pay a $200 tax for each.
Crimes associated with suppressors are very rare in the United States and in Washington State. Each county sheriff was requested to provide data on violations of RCW 9.41.250(c) or any other misuse of a suppressor; 32 counties reported data. A total of ten crimes in Washington were reported for as far back as records were maintained.
Bill 5112 will make an exception only for those people, including the police that legally own suppressors and register them in accordance with federal law. Use of unregistered suppressors by anyone will still remain a gross misdemeanor.
Suppressors are one of the most effective means of reducing firearm noise. As private property owners move closer to shooting areas, suppressor use can reduce noise complaints.
While suppressors do not make firearms completely silent, they prevent hearing loss which is one of the most common injuries associated with firearms use. A good suppressor can lower noise by about 30 decibels. A firearm will have a noise level of about 110 to 140 decibels when used with a suppressor.
Suppressors typically cost between $200 and $3000. Thousands of Washington residents already own suppressors. Allowing their use by registered owners will increase the number sold locally in the state and result in increased tax revenue.
Licensed manufacturers In Washington will no longer be at a disadvantage if they are allowed to test the suppressors they make locally.
The Washington Council of Police and Sheriff's supports bill 5112.
Cease Fire Washington and the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs are taking a neutral position on bill 5112.
Suggestions are appreciated. If you are wiling to include your name/address as a supporter, please PM so I can add your name to the list. Thanks.
Randy