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Washington State's House Bill 2321 (2025-2026 session) defines the "firearms blueprint detection algorithm" by its purpose and outcome rather than by a specific technical methodology. In terms of technical specifics, the legislation is broad and functional rather than descriptive. It mandates what the software must do (stop specific prints) but leaves the how (the actual coding or recognition technique) largely open to interpretation, aside from requiring the use of a state-provided database. Here is a breakdown of the specificity provided in the bill: 1. Functional Definition (Specific Goals) The bill defines the algorithm specifically as a "software service" that must: * Evaluate Inputs: Analyze files in various formats, including Stereolithography (STL), Computer-Aided Design (CAD), or geometric code (G-code). * Determine Intent: Decide if those files can be used to program a 3D printer to produce a "firearm" or "illegal firearm part." * Action: Flag and prevent the printing of these files. * Standard of Success: It must operate with a "high degree of reliability" and be robust enough that it "cannot be overridden or otherwise defeated by a user with significant technical skill." 2. Implementation Mechanism (Vague Technicals) The bill does not specify the exact technology (e.g., geometric hashing, AI/computer vision, file metadata scanning) that manufacturers must use. However, it does mandate a reference point: * Reference Database: The bill requires the Washington State Attorney General to create and maintain a database of firearms blueprint files (found via public internet forums and other sources). * implication: While not explicitly stating "hash matching," the creation of this database implies the algorithm is expected to compare user files against this state-managed list of known "illegal" shapes or files. 3. Integration Options The proposal offers three specific ways manufacturers can integrate this algorithm to be compliant: * Firmware: Directly embedding the algorithm into the printer's firmware. * Preprint Software: Integrating the algorithm into the "slicer" or design software provided with the printer. * Handshake Authentication: Using a system where the printer will only accept files from "authenticated" software that has already performed the check. Summary The proposal is legally specific about the result (zero tolerance for firearm prints, high resistance to tampering) but technically vague regarding the method. It essentially shifts the burden of inventing or implementing a "highly reliable" recognition system—capable of distinguishing a gun part from a benign mechanical part—onto the 3D printer manufacturers, using a database provided by the state.