Klickitat County sheriff won't enforce new gun laws

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Klickitat County Sheriff Bob Songer says he will not enforce the new initiative that places stiff requirements on the sale and ownership of semi-automatic rifles. Songer told the Yakima Herald-Republic that he believes the new law is unconstitutional. Initiative 1639 — approved in November — raises the age to purchase a semi-automatic rifle from 18 to 21, calls for enhanced background checks, and requires buyers to complete a firearm safety course. The initiative also holds gun owners accountable if someone uses their firearm to harm themselves or others. The Lewis County Sheriff’s Office and Republic Police Chief Loren Culp announced shortly after the November election that they wouldn’t enforce the new law. The National Rifle Association and the Second Amendment Foundation have filed a joint lawsuit challenging the initiative. ___ Information from: Yakima Herald-Republic, http://www.yakimaherald.com Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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