Thank you to Mike Vellekamp, owner VNives in Eatonville, Washington, for representing his concerns and those of the American Knife & Tool Institute regarding SB 5444 in Washington State.
SB 5444 is basically a bill to limit firearms in sensitive places, including transit facilities. However, it lumps knives in with “weapons” and would effectively prohibit anyone from having a knife in possession on any pubic transportation. This bill passed the Senate by 29 yes and 20 no.
If passed, this law would greatly restrict employees working in the knife industry and any individual using the transit system.
A public hearing was held on February 16, and an executive session is scheduled in the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary.
If you live in Washington State, now is the time to contact your representative and ask them not to allow this restriction on knives. Find your House Member here.