Washington State is facing heated debates over a proposed 11% excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and parts, sparking concerns among gun owners and Second Amendment advocates. House Bill 1386, introduced in the state legislature, has quickly drawn criticism for what many perceive as an attempt to make exercising constitutional rights prohibitively expensive.
Supporters of the bill, however, argue that it’s a necessary step to fund gun violence prevention programs. This controversial proposal is already making waves across the nation, drawing comparisons to similar measures in California.
The Details of HB 1386

House Bill 1386, as explained by the NRA-ILA, seeks to impose an additional 11% excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and firearm components sold in Washington State. This new tax would be layered on top of the existing 11% federal excise tax established by the Pittman-Robertson Act, as well as other state and local taxes. Critics argue that this cumulative tax burden could make firearms and ammunition unaffordable for many residents, effectively pricing people out of their Second Amendment rights.
The funds raised by the tax would reportedly go toward programs focused on gun violence prevention, suicide prevention, and victim services. While proponents see this as a way to address public safety concerns, opponents claim it is an unjust financial penalty on lawful gun owners. The NRA-ILA has stated that it will be present at the bill’s hearing to oppose the measure.
Public Hearings Stir Debate

The proposal has sparked intense discussions during public hearings in Washington’s state capitol. According to reporting by Drew Mikkelsen of King 5 Seattle, dozens of citizens testified both for and against the bill. One supporter, Julia Berus, a high school senior, shared her traumatic experience of being close to a school shooting and urged lawmakers to prioritize safety measures.
Meanwhile, Dave Workman of the Citizens Committee to Bear Arms criticized the proposed tax, stating, “Having a gun, keeping and bearing arms, that’s a right. And nowhere in the Constitution… does it require me to get police permission to exercise a right.”
These contrasting testimonies highlight the deep divisions in Washington over how to address gun violence while respecting constitutional freedoms.
Comparisons to California’s Laws

The controversy surrounding Washington’s proposed tax mirrors a similar 11% excise tax implemented in California. William, host of the YouTube channel Copper Jacket TV, noted that California’s legislation has had significant financial repercussions for both consumers and small businesses in the firearms industry.
According to William, “Prices have skyrocketed, and it’s almost unaffordable for certain items.” He warned that Washington’s adoption of a similar tax could have the same detrimental effects, further burdening lawful gun owners while failing to address the root causes of gun violence.
William also criticized the broader implications of such measures, emphasizing how they can infringe on constitutional rights. “Our forefathers were willing to start a revolution over a small tax on tea and no representation, yet here we are with taxes on constitutional rights,” he said, urging Washington residents to oppose the bill.
Concerns Over Legislative Intent

William Kirk, president of Washington Gun Law, dissected the language of HB 1386 and highlighted its potential impact. Kirk noted that the bill explicitly adds a new 11% tax on firearms, parts, and ammunition, which would be in addition to existing state and local taxes. He also pointed out that the funds would largely go toward programs focused on gun violence prevention, a move he criticized as making residents “fund their own disarmament.”
Kirk questioned the logic behind the bill’s findings, which cite firearm-related deaths as a justification for stricter gun control. He argued that the data often conflates suicides with other forms of gun violence, potentially misleading the public about the true causes of firearm-related deaths. “Two-thirds of gun deaths are suicides,” he explained, emphasizing that mental health issues, not firearms, are the underlying cause.
The Financial Burden on Gun Owners

Opponents of the bill argue that the additional tax will disproportionately affect low- and middle-income residents, making it harder for them to exercise their Second Amendment rights. The NRA-ILA has expressed concerns that the cumulative cost of federal, state, and local taxes could push lawful gun ownership out of reach for many citizens. This, they argue, represents an unconstitutional barrier to a fundamental right.
Dave Workman highlighted the absurdity of comparing gun ownership to other regulated activities, such as driving or fishing, which are privileges rather than rights. “This isn’t a privilege – it’s a right,” he said, underscoring the constitutional implications of the proposed tax.
Supporters Argue for Public Safety

Supporters of the bill, including Democratic lawmakers, maintain that the tax is a necessary step toward reducing gun violence. Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen emphasized that the legislation is part of a broader effort to protect families and children in Washington. “We cannot afford to let up on our gun violence prevention work,” Pedersen said, framing the proposal as a public safety measure rather than an attack on constitutional rights.
Some supporters also view the tax as a way to address Washington’s budget challenges, with forecasters predicting a $12 billion deficit over the next four years. Revenue generated by the tax would provide funding for programs aimed at reducing violence and supporting victims, according to lawmakers.
A Nationwide Trend?

The introduction of HB 1386 is part of a growing trend of state-level efforts to impose stricter gun control measures. Copper Jacket TV and other Second Amendment advocates warn that policies like this often spread from one state to another. If Washington’s bill is passed, it could inspire similar legislation in other states, further restricting access to firearms nationwide.
Taxing a Right?

The thing that makes this debate particularly concerning is the precedent it sets. Taxing a constitutional right is a slippery slope that raises important questions about fairness and access. If a financial burden can be placed on the Second Amendment, what’s to stop similar measures from being applied to other rights? This isn’t just about guns – it’s about the broader principle of ensuring that all Americans can exercise their rights without undue interference.
At the same time, the argument for public safety cannot be ignored. Gun violence is a real and pressing issue, and finding solutions that balance safety with constitutional freedoms is no easy task. However, opponents argue that taxing lawful gun owners isn’t the answer, as it punishes responsible citizens without addressing the root causes of violence.
What’s Next for HB 1386?

The first hearing for HB 1386 is scheduled for January 21st, and the outcome could set the tone for the future of gun legislation in Washington and beyond. Both supporters and opponents are urging citizens to make their voices heard, whether by submitting testimony, contacting legislators, or attending public hearings.
A Controversial Measure

HB 1386 represents yet another flashpoint in the ongoing national debate over gun rights and gun control. For supporters, it’s a step toward addressing gun violence and funding essential programs. For opponents, it’s an unconstitutional barrier that unfairly penalizes law-abiding gun owners. Regardless of where one stands, the debate underscores the complexity of balancing public safety with individual rights—a challenge that will undoubtedly continue to shape policy discussions for years to come.

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.