OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) - A measure to collect statewide data on firearm violence and create a grant program for prevention programs passed the Senate Tuesday.
The measure, modeled on a program in King County, creates the Washington Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention, which would work with law enforcement agencies and others to collect and centralize data on firearm violence, including suicide.
The office would also administer grants to fund preventative evidence-based initiatives undertaken by cities and community-based organizations in Washington. Proponents of the bill say it would allow communities to decide how to best address their unique experience with gun violence. But Republicans argue the bill is a partisan push for gun control.
The Senate approved the bill on a 25-23 vote, sending it to the House for consideration.
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