Washington State HB 2320: The 3D Printing Bill That Could Change Everything

Washington Takes Aim at 3D Printed Firearms

Washington State has introduced House Bill 2320 (HB 2320), proposed legislation that would ban the use of 3D printers or CNC machines to create firearms or firearm components without a license. The bill represents one of the most significant legislative attempts to regulate 3D printing technology in the United States.

What HB 2320 Would Do

The proposed law targets so-called ghost guns — privately manufactured firearms that lack serial numbers and are difficult to trace. However, critics warn the bill goes far beyond its stated purpose.

According to reports, HB 2320 would:

• Ban unlicensed 3D printing of firearms — Making it a crime to create gun parts using additive manufacturing without proper licensing
• Expand criminal liability for digital firearm manufacturing code — Potentially criminalizing the possession of digital firearm blueprints
• Target equipment, not just files — Explicitly pulling 3D printers and CNC milling machines into firearms law

Maker Community Backlash

The 3D printing community has responded with significant concern. Organizations including Adafruit have called the bill bad for STEM, bad for business, and bad for open source 3D printing.

The legislation raises several concerns for makers:

• Overbreadth — The definition of digital firearm manufacturing code could include harmless files like toy blasters or movie props
• Impact on legitimate makers — Could criminalize lawful uses of 3D printers for custom parts, cosplay props, and educational purposes
• Precedent for further regulation — Opens the door to broader restrictions on 3D printing technology

Fast-Tracked Through Legislature

In a concerning development for opponents of the bill, HB 2320 was recently removed from the Appropriations Committee and moved to Rules 2, where it can be brought for a House Floor vote without public input. This fast-tracking has heightened concerns about the bills potential impact.

Part of a Larger Trend

Washington isnt alone in targeting 3D printing and firearms. Similar legislation has been proposed in California (AB 2047) and Colorado, reflecting a growing legislative focus on the intersection of maker technology and gun control.

What This Means for 3D Printing

If passed, HB 2320 could fundamentally change how makers in Washington State use their 3D printers. While the stated goal is preventing unregulated firearm manufacturing, the broad language could affect everything from 3D printed cosplay props to engineering prototypes.

The maker community continues to organize against the bill, arguing that responsible regulation can target illegal firearm manufacturing without stifling innovation and legitimate use of 3D printing technology.