Proponents for I-1639 say it is an initiative for “safe schools and communities” gun control. However all three major law enforcement organizations in the state of Washington are asking you to vote no. As a recently retired officer with 30 years of experience, I can tell that no one is more interested in “safe schools and communities” than law enforcement, but the Washington State Sheriffs Association, the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs and the Washington State Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors Association all agree it will do nothing to stop a single crime.

WSLEFIA says I-1639 will do nothing to stop criminals “and is only directed at our good citizens, who already pass multiple background checks before owing a firearms” and it is “an attack on civil rights and is an attempt to marginalize all firearms owners, including law enforcement” and “will impair public safety.”

“WACOPS believes that I-1639 contains provisions that are in clear violation of both state and federal individual Constitutional rights, which as law enforcement officers, WACOPS members are sworn to uphold.” They further state that “if passed I-1639 would impose significant restrictions on a citizen’s ability to possess and access commonly owned firearms for lawful self-defense”.

The Washington State Sheriffs Association has the unique perspective of being made up of law enforcement leaders directly elected by the residents of Washington’s various counties and, with this broad range of interests and experience, they oppose I-639.

Washington law enforcement says vote no on I-1639.

Scott Brennan

Friday Harbor