Letter to the editor: Vote ‘yes’ on HB 1152

If you could prevent the tragic injury or death of a child/teen caused by an unsecured firearm, would you? Of course, anyone would. Then why are firearms the leading cause of death for young people in our nation since 2022 (overtaking deaths by car accidents).

This public health crisis is preventable. Right now the state legislature is debating House Bill 1152, which establishes safe storage requirements for firearms in vehicles and residences. In a 2013-2022 study, Washington State Department of Health reported that only 45 percent of firearms owners in Thurston County stored their guns securely — locked and unloaded with ammo stored separately. The good news is that safe storage of firearms has increased by 7% annually.

This encouraging trend is due to educational programs at hospitals, state agencies — including Veterans Affairs and non-profit groups focused on preventing gun violence. From October 2023 to June 2025, a total number of 9,063 safe storage devices were distributed statewide.

By casting a “yes” vote on HB 1152 our legislators will reduce the number of suicides and unintentional deaths among our children and teens. The American Academy of Pediatrics in their July 2025 study found that 60.3% of the 15 to 20 year olds who died by firearm suicide lived in a home with unlocked firearms. HB 1152 also addresses the rising theft of firearms from vehicles, to keep them out of dangerous hands and reduce illegal gun trafficking.

Make a difference by contacting your state legislators NOW! If you are unsure of their names, go to: app.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder or call
1-800-562-6000.

George Burazer, Lacey