Sheriffs in several counties in Washington State have refused to enforce the state’s sweeping restrictions on semi-automatic rifles until the courts decide whether they are constitutional.
Sheriffs in twelve counties have decided not to enforce the law until the courts decide on the constitutional challenge put forth by the NRA and the Second Amendment Foundation.
Initiative 1639 has already raised the minimum age to buy a semi-automatic rifle from 18 to 21 in Washington state. The initiative also authorizes the state to require gun sellers to add $25 to sales of semi-automatic rifles to pay for new regulations. This summer additional provisions requiring stricter firearm storage, background checks, and safety courses are slated to take affect.
“I swore an oath to defend our citizens and their constitutionally protected rights. I do not believe the popular vote overrules that," Grant County Sherriff Tom Jones said about the law.