House Bill Exempting Firearm Permits from Public Records Advances in Olympia

Bipartisan legislation aims to protect privacy of gun owners while upholding constitutional rights

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A bill in the Washington state legislature that would exempt firearm purchase permits, dealer transfers, and concealed carry licenses from public records has gained support from both Democrats and Republicans. The bill's sponsor, Representative Liz Berry (D-Seattle), argues the exemption is necessary to protect the privacy of gun owners, while House Minority Leader Jim Walsh (R-Aberdeen) believes it will improve public policy around gun ownership. The legislation has already passed the state House and is now being considered by the Senate Rules Committee.

Why it matters

This bill highlights the ongoing debate around balancing public transparency and individual privacy, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like gun ownership. Supporters argue the exemption is needed to protect lawful gun owners, while critics are wary of reducing public access to records related to firearms.

The details

The House bill would create exceptions to Washington's public records act to keep firearm purchase permits, dealer transfers, and concealed pistol licenses private. Representative Jim Walsh, the House minority leader, believes this will "improve our public policy" around gun ownership, while the bill's sponsor, Representative Liz Berry, says the exemption is "very necessary." The legislation passed the House with bipartisan support and is now being considered by the Senate.

  • The House bill was introduced in early 2026.
  • The bill passed the House in late February 2026.
  • The bill is currently under consideration by the Senate Rules Committee.

The players

Jim Walsh

Republican Representative and House Minority Leader from Aberdeen, Washington.

Liz Berry

Democratic Representative from Seattle, Washington and the sponsor of the House bill.

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What they’re saying

“Mr. Speaker, this good, bipartisan bill uses an exception to the public records act to shore up our plan to require a plan to purchase a firearm to improve our public policy.”

— Jim Walsh, House Minority Leader (kimatv.com)

“This is a very necessary exemption in our public records act, and I urge you to do the same.”

— Liz Berry, Bill Sponsor (kimatv.com)

What’s next

The bill is currently under consideration by the Senate Rules Committee, which will determine if it moves forward for a full Senate vote.

The takeaway

This bipartisan legislation reflects the ongoing debate around public transparency and individual privacy when it comes to sensitive issues like gun ownership. While supporters argue the exemption is needed to protect lawful gun owners, critics remain wary of reducing public access to records related to firearms.