Photo:
Supporters of I-1639 gather to turn in signatures on Friday, July 6. Photo courtesy of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility
After less than six weeks of campaigning for signatures, the Alliance for Gun Responsibility turned in more than 375,000 signatures in support of Initiative 1639 last week.
The initiative is now expected to clear the 259,622-signature bar needed to qualify for the November ballot in Washington state.
The process wasn't without difficulty. Opponents to I-1639 filed an emergency request early last week, asking that the Washington State Supreme Court invalidate the signatures based on concerns with the petitions used. The court tossed out the filing but the Secretary of State's Office must still decide if the petitions are valid.
As of last week, supporters of I-1639 have raised more than $3 million in support of the initiative, which would, among other changes, raise the minimum age to purchase a semi-automatic rifle to 21, create an enhanced background check system, require completion of a firearm safety training course and create standards for the secure storage of guns.
So, what's next? The Campaign for I-1639 suggests visiting the campaign website to learn how to donate and volunteer. ParentMap also sends a monthly newsletter about local gun safety news as well as resources for your family. Sign up here.
