Editor,

It is important for the voters of Island County and Washington state to understand the issues surrounding initiatives 591 and 594.

I-594 extends the current background checks at licensed gun dealers to other sales, especially those at gun shows. I-591 prohibits the extension of background checks to other than licensed gun dealers.

The two initiatives are opposites.

For legal issues not to become murky if both initiatives pass, voters should be careful not to vote in favor of both initiatives. Do not vote “yes” on both initiatives.

If you oppose the extension of background checks on gun purchases, vote “yes” on I-591 and “no” on I-594.

If you support the extension of background checks to gun purchases outside of those at licensed gun stores, vote “yes” on I-594 and “no” on I-591.

It is currently unlawful for felons or mentally unstable people to purchase guns. Gun stores currently run background checks on purchasers because of this. I-594 would extend such background checks to purchases of guns from other than licensed gun stores.

Jerry Case
Coupeville