Some Washington lawmakers look to make changes to gun background checks

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington lawmakers are considering changes to the new law that requires background checks on gun transfers.

The state Senate Law and Justice Committee is holding a hearing Monday afternoon on several bills, including exemptions for police and military members.

Voters approved Initiative 594 last year to require background checks on all gun transfers, including purchases between private individuals and loans.

Opponents say the new law infringes on firearm rights guaranteed in the state and federal constitutions.

When protesters carried guns into the Legislature's visitors' gallery in January, lawmakers quickly changed the rules and banned the open carrying of firearms at the Capitol.

A group of about 50 people protested that rule on Saturday in Olympia by carrying weapons. But they were locked out of the Capitol.