SEATTLE, WA – Today, Initiative 1639, the most comprehensive gun violence prevention measure in state history, takes full effect. The measure, which was approved by nearly 60 percent of voters statewide last November, strengthens the rules for semi-automatic assault rifles and establishes a safe storage incentive.

More than 900 students, parents, grandparents, and advocates from across Washington state signed on to a letter thanking voters for taking action to protect our schools and communities from gun violence.

“This is a historic day for Washington state,” said Renee Hopkins, CEO of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. “With Initiative 1639 in full effect, Washington schools and communities are safer from gun violence. Last November, voters sent the message loud and clear that they want comprehensive action to reduce gun violence. Initiative 1639 includes commonsense safeguards that will help ensure that guns, especially particularly lethal semi-automatic assault rifles, don’t fall into dangerous hands and it will save lives in our state.”

The provision raising the purchase age for semi-automatic assault rifles from 18- to 21-years-old took effect on January 1, 2019. The rest of Initiative 1639, including the safe storage incentive and requirements for Enhanced Background Checks, safety training, and waiting periods for semi-automatic assault rifles all come into effect today.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the initiative can be found here.