Index
Self Defense & CriminalWashington, USA

Washington Assault Weapon Ban (HB 1240)

Summary

In 2023, Washington State passed one of the strictest gun control laws in the U.S., completely banning the sale, manufacture, and importation of 'assault weapons.'

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    You cannot legally buy, sell, manufacture, or import a semi-automatic 'assault weapon' in Washington state.
  • 02.
    The law explicitly names dozens of specific banned firearms (including AR-15 and AK-47 style rifles) and also bans any semi-automatic rifle with certain features (like a pistol grip, folding stock, or flash hider).
  • 03.
    If you already owned one of these weapons BEFORE the law went into effect, you are 'grandfathered' in and can legally keep it.
  • 04.
    You can only legally sell your grandfathered weapon to a licensed dealer (to sell out of state) or leave it to an immediate family member upon your death.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Manufacturing, importing, distributing, or selling a banned assault weapon is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.

Verified Citations

Washington House Bill 1240 (2023)

Source
"No person in this state may manufacture, import, distribute, sell, or offer for sale any assault weapon, except as authorized in this section."