Editor,

I take strong exception to Gary Raster’s letter in the Sept. 10 issue of the Whidbey News-Times.

His letter is filled with misstatements and misunderstandings of Initiative 594. Let me tackle just two issues.

I-594 funding: I-594 was drafted and supported by the Washington Alliance for Gun Responsibility (WAGR). This organization is made up of Washington state and local civic leaders on both sides of the political aisle, law enforcement professionals, faith community personnel, local victims of gun violence and thousands of concerned Washington residents who want to see responsible, reasonable gun legislation in our state.

Three major contributors to I-594 are Nick Hanauer, Bill Gates and Paul Allen.

No one can accuse these gentlemen of not being Washington state citizens.

Temporary gun transfers: I-594 closes a loophole in current law and requires that all gun sales be subject to background checks with some exceptions.

Read I-594, paragraph (4) of section 3. It specifically states that this section does not apply to a transfer between immediate family members, the sale or transfer of antique firearms, temporary transfer between spouses, temporary transfer at an established shooting range, at a lawful organized competition or while hunting. It also excludes transfers to a person under 18 years of age for lawful hunting, sporting or educational purposes while under the direct supervision and control of a responsible adult.

Hysterical rantings will not change the facts about I-594. If you have concerns, read the full text of I-594 yourself. The initiative is well written and available online.

Read it, understand it and vote for it in November.

Art Huffine

Oak Harbor