Proposed code repeal would allow loaded guns in Snohomish County parks (WA)

Snohomish County Progressive Examiner ^ | 26 November, 2009 | Chad Shue

[marktwain]

According to a piece in the Everett Herald recently re-elected council member, John "Freedom County" Koster, doesn't think there are enough venues for gun owners in Snohomish County and is hoping to repeal the county's current ban on firearms in the county's parks. Herald reporter Noah Haglund writes,

"If a new law passes, you could feel free to tote a legally owned firearm into county parks. Just don’t shoot it, unless it’s in self-defense.

County code, as it reads now, prohibits people from carrying or discharging guns in county parks.

Lifting the long-standing ban is mostly a house-keeping measure to bring the county in line with state law, said Councilman John Koster, who submitted the proposal earlier this month. An opinion from State Attorney General Rob McKenna supports his stance.

“You read through the attorney general’s opinion, it’s pretty darn strong,” Koster said. “The code is in conflict with state law.”

Crossbows, slingshots and fireworks would still be against the rules if the law changes in Snohomish County."

Republican Councilman John Koster; Proposed repeal would welcome guns into county parks (Photo, Koster campaign website)

The state law in question is RCW 9.41.290, "State Preemption" and reads:

[marktwain]

It would be good to get the county in line with the Constitution.

[VR-21]

I’ve long considered my j-frame Smith part of my tackle when I’m fishing at Lake Goodwin.

[sig226]

Good luck with this. Seattle wannabes in the county?

FYI, Florida has carry in state parks. This was enacted in October, 2006. There have been no problems. The usual argument about blood spilled over the slightest incident in the park has no evidence to support it.

[Jack Black]

Actually I think it’s an illegal law. WA has state override of firearms laws. (Pre-emption is the legal term, I believe). Cities and counties can’t just go making gun laws to suit themsleves. (Some still do, but they are blatently illegal laws. San Francisco did the same thing a few years ago and lost resoundingly in the first court case challenging it)