imported post
I have a question regarding this topic - Why is it that the topic of "Firearms and dangerous weapons" is covered in Title 9 (chapter 9.41), and yet rifles/shotguns (also "firearms") in a vehicle are not mentioned here, but instead in Title 77 - "Fish and wildlife"? (chapter 77.15.460)
Is there some logic behind this? I don't fish or hunt, and I would not normally assume that a section of code specifically titled "Fish and wildlife" would contain applicable code that applies to me (not being a hunter, fisherman or poacher etc.), that I would not find in the subject-relevant Title 9 chapter 9.41. I guess the division of information is what stumps me, and also I don't understand what my shotgun has to do with "Fish and wildlife", being that I don't own a shotgun for hunting or fishing...
I also think it odd the distinctions within the content of the codes, but not the titles -
For example, 9.41.050 is titled "Carrying firearms", yet it only refers to pistols, likewise, 77.15 is titled "Fish and wildlife enforcement code", and 77.15.460 is titled "Loaded firearm in vehicle — Unlawful use or possession — Penalty.", yet speaks specifically about rifles and shotguns only - not pistols - and it inherits a prefix of "Fish and wildlife enforcement code".
So I guess I don't understand why are these broken out into 2 very separate sections, one with a very relevant title, the other with (what I think is) an irrelevant title ("Fish and wildlife enforcement code" vs. "Firearms and dangerous weapons"). I find this confusing and counter-intuitive. (I know, like most gun related legislation!)
This makes sense:
"RCWs" -> "Crimes and punishments" -> "Firearms and dangerous weapons." -> "Carrying firearms."
This makes zero sense:
"RCWs" -> "Fish and wildlife (formerly: game and game fish)" -> "Fish and wildlife enforcement code." -> "Loaded firearm in vehicle -- Unlawful use or possession -- Penalty."
That is, it makes no sense that the information contained in title 77.15.460 is not present in title 9.41.050
Does anyone have some insight into this?
Link to RCW:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=77