well they used their own discretion then, not the RCW :
(2)(a) A person shall not carry or place a loaded pistol in any vehicle unless the person has a license to carry a concealed pistol and: (i) The pistol is on the licensee's person, (ii) the licensee is within the vehicle at all times that the pistol is there, or (iii) the licensee is away from the vehicle and the pistol is locked within the vehicle and concealed from view from outside the vehicle.
The wording here is that the licensee
IS away from the vehicle
AND the pistol is locked within the vehicle and concealed from view from the outside of the vehicle.
Also, washington is an open carry state. (as long as its not in a vehicle without a valid CPL.) You need to be prepared to exercise this right though, and I would make sure you are well versed on the law before you do. I have had more than my fair share of "encounters" with law enforcement while openly carrying. It is however an excellent way to educate the public, as you will attract allot of attention, and will more than likely end up correcting a few people on what the law does and does not state.
There is some excellent discussion and advise here:
www.opencarry.org This link takes you to Washingtons open carry forum.
http://opencarry.mywowbb.com/forum55/ This website has a ton of info about carrying, openly and concealed. Lots of stories from the members and their experiences too. Check it out, its worth the time.
Take care.
