Franklin County opposes voter-approved assault rifle ban

Franklin County is one of the first counties in Washington to formally oppose Initiative 1639[1], the voter-approved measure to restrict semiautomatic assault rifles. In a 3-0 vote Tuesday, the county commission approved a resolution declaring its opposition to the initiative and affirming its support for the right of citizens “to legally purchase, own and possess firearms as authorized under the U.S. and state constitutions.” Franklin County wasn’t the only county taking action on I-1639 Tuesday. TDN.com reports[2] the Cowlitz County commissioners passed a similar resolution, declaring its belief the initiative is unconstitutional. It isn’t clear if any other counties have taken a similar position. The Association of Washington Counties said the issue is a low priority and is not being tracked. Digital Access for only $0.99 For the most comprehensive local coverage, subscribe today. The move by Franklin County commissioners affirms Sheriff Jim Raymond’s prior instructions to deputies not to arrest individuals if they encounter I-1639 violations but to document them for review by prosecutors for possible charges. Newly-elected Commissioner Clint Didier proposed the resolution, saying Franklin County needed to make plain its commitment to the Second Amendment and to back up its sheriff. I-1639 passed statewide with 59 percent of the vote in the Nov. 6, 2018 general election, largely on the strength of support in Western Washington. The initiative was unpopular locally[3], with nearly 60 percent of voters in Franklin County casting “no” votes. Franklin County Commissioner Clint Didier Supporters call the initiative a reaction to gun violence but opponents call it unconstitutional. The National Rifle Association, which backed the No On I-1639 campaign, and the Second Amendment Foundation challenged the constitutionality of the initiative in a federal suit filed shortly after the election. The complaint alleges I-1639 violates the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution along

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