OLYMPIA — Bipartisan legislation updating Washington law related to the possession of spring blade knives was heard Monday in the Senate Law & Justice Committee.
Senate Bill 5962, sponsored by Sen. T’wina Nobles (D-Fircrest), would revise state statutes to clarify that spring blade knives are not classified as dangerous weapons under Washington law and to update related provisions governing where such knives may be carried.
Under the bill, spring blade knives would be removed from the list of weapons prohibited under certain sections of state law, while maintaining existing restrictions on possession in specific locations, including K-12 school grounds and licensed childcare facilities. The legislation also makes conforming changes across multiple statutes to ensure consistent definitions and enforcement.
SB 5962 repeals outdated statutory language related to spring blade knives and updates cross-references in law enforcement, education, and childcare statutes.
“This bill brings clarity and consistency to state law by updating how spring blade knives are defined and regulated,” Nobles said. “It ensures our statutes reflect current standards while maintaining clear rules around where these items may not be carried.”
“As with many things in Olympia the unintended consequences of legislative actions cause the loss of jobs,” said Sen. Phil Fortunato (R-Auburn), co-sponsor of the bill. “The passage of this legislation will correct outdated state laws and preserve manufacturing jobs in our local communities.”
Follow the bill’s progress here.