I’m a little concerned about this new take on ERPOs (Extreme Risk Protection Orders) out of Washington state, which are used to seize the firearms of those individuals deemed by police or family members to be a danger to themselves or others.
‘Red flag’ gun law should include minors, Washington state prosecutors say
Since a juvenile does not have the right to own firearms, whose firearms are they going to seize? Those of the parents (even if securely locked in a safe)? How about those of siblings living in the same household who are not subject to the ERPO?
Where would we draw the line on if we extend ERPOs to people who are not legally allowed to have firearms, but who have contact with people who do? What if a fellow housemate is the subject of a ERPO? Does that mean the police can seize all firearms in the household, regardless of ownership, even if properly secured from unauthorized use? How about if an adult child is the subject of an ERPO, and has keys to his parents home for emergency purposes? Is it acceptable for the police to seize the guns of the parents in this case? How about those of the girlfriend/spouse?
Where would it end?