Sen. Nikki Torres, R-Pasco, is working to ensure Central Washington residents are protected, and not penalized, under new gun legislation passed by the state Senate on Monday. Torres offered two amendments to House Bill 1163 that she says are critical for safeguarding vulnerable residents and holding the state accountable for delays in the permit process.

“While I have deep concerns about HB 1163 as a whole, it’s critical that we do everything we can to protect those who are most at risk and to hold our systems accountable to the people,” Torres said.

One amendment offered by Torres exempts individuals who are protected parties under valid protection orders, such as victims of domestic violence, from the bill’s requirement to obtain a permit prior to purchasing or transferring a firearm. Torres argued the exemption is necessary to prevent delays that could endanger lives.

“This provision ensures that those under threat are not forced to wait for a bureaucratic process while their safety hangs in the balance,” she said.

Another Torres amendment requires the Washington State Patrol’s background check program to reimburse applicants for permit fees if the state fails to issue or deny the permit within 30 days of filing.

“If the government is going to mandate a new permitting system, it has a responsibility to operate efficiently,” said Torres. “Taxpayers should not be on the hook for delays that deny them their constitutional rights.”

HB 1163 passed the Senate on a party-line vote without the Torres amendments and will now return to the House for concurrence with other changes made on the Senate floor.