OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Additional requirements for potential gun owners is another step closer to becoming state law.

Lawmakers in Olympia voted to pass HB 1163 out of the state Senate on Monday, April 14.

If signed into law, prospective gun buyers would be required to obtain a permit before they can make any firearm purchase. Some of the permit requirements would include getting fingerprinted and completing a certified gun safety program.

Permits would be valid for five years and have the option to be renewed for an additional five-year term.

Bill sponsors, including 40th District Representative Alex Ramel, say that it would protect gun owners by teaching them how to safely handle a firearm. Others argue that adding a permit to the purchasing process infringes on citizens’ second Amendment rights.

The bill returns to the state House for a concurrence vote before it heads to the Governor’s desk.