The National Rifle Association filed a lawsuit Thursday to block a new statewide gun-control measure.
Voters decidedly approved Initiative 1639 last week. Among many details spelled out in the new law, I-1639 prohibits people younger than 21 from buying semi-automatic rifles. It also requires buyers to pass an enhanced background check and show proof of firearms training.
The NRA and Bellevue-based Second Amendment Foundation filed the suit in U.S. District Court in Seattle. The groups argue that the measure violates the 2nd Amendment and bleeds into regulation of interstate commerce, which is in the domain of the federal government.
Ahead of the election last Tuesday, opponents said the initiative would criminalize self defense. Proponents said it was a step in the right direction for gun control.
