Gun control groups get victory in Washington ballot initiative

Gun control groups are celebrating after Washington state voters on Tuesday passed a measure expanding background checks on gun sales.

The success of the measure means Washington will become the seventh state plus Washington, D.C., to require universal background checks on all gun sales, including private sales and gifts to friends.

Federal regulations only require background checks for gun sales from licensed dealers.

Gun control has become a hot topic in some political circles following a wave of recent shootings, including the one in Sandy Hook, Conn., in 2012, that killed 20 schoolchildren and six adults.

Since then, five states have passed laws requiring universal background checks: Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, New York, and now Washington state. 

California and Rhode Island also require universal background checks.

Gun control groups said passage of the Washington state measure will build momentum for gun legislation on Capitol Hill.

Former Rep. Gabby Giffords (D-Ariz.) called it a “common sense” decision by Washington state voters.

“This victory for responsibility in Washington state sends a clear message to the other Washington that if Congress is not ready to act to reduce gun violence, voters in states around the country can and will take the matter into their own hands,” she said.