Contact: Josh Weiss, Legislative/Legal Affairs Coordinator (360) 902-2226

Situation

During the 1994 legislative session, a violence prevention bill (ESSHB 2319) passed, resulting in significant changes to the dangerous weapons statute (RCW 9.41). Prior to passage of the legislation, a minor under the age of 14 was required to be supervised by a parent or guardian in order to carry a firearm and hunt. The legislation inadvertently abolished this requirement.

Problem

Currently, there is no minimum age for a licensed hunter or trapper to possess a firearm and hunt unaccompanied, even though it is in the public's best interest that such a requirement exist.

Proposal

The agency proposes that RCW 9.41.042 be amended to require minors under the age of 14 be supervised by a parent or guardian in order to carry a firearm and hunt or trap.

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