Washington Governor Closes all Non-Essential Businesses Local Law Enforcement Begins Shutting Down FFLs
Washington Governor Jay Inslee issued a stay-at-home order for all people in the state in response to COVID-19. Part of this includes the closure of all businesses not deemed “essential.” The Governor chose not to specifically include firearms-related business in the list of those considered “essential.” However, the order allows businesses to remain open who provide services “necessary to maintain the safety and sanitation of residences,” as well as “all facilities used by law enforcement personnel” and those supporting defense and national security-related operations.
It is unclear whether gun stores, ranges and other associated businesses must close at a time when concerned, law-abiding citizens of the state need them to remain open and ensure personal and family safety. The order allows “defense and national security-related operations supporting the United States government or a contractor to the United States government” to remain open. Firearm manufacturers with U.S. government contracts meet this requirement. It is likely that those with law enforcement contracts may also remain operational.
We’re getting reports from all over the state of police departments informing retailers they must shut down. Additionally, we’re hearing about local law enforcement shutting down their background check services.
Your NSSF® government relations team sent the Governor a letter arguing why the industry is essential while working diligently to get our industry added to the essential list.
Please contact the Governor and request he amend his order to include firearm-related businesses and shooting ranges in the list of those designated as “essential.” If he gives such a designation to liquor stores and dry cleaners, those businesses that make possible the exercise of our firearms freedoms enshrined in the Second Amendment and Article 2, Section 6 of the State Constitution would seem to have earned at least as much. NSSF urges all members to comply with the requirements, closely follow CDC guidelines, practice social distancing, and take precautions to protect the health of their employees and customers.
