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New rules for safe storage of firearms at home

This law requires firearms to be stored safely in homes to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. Gun owners must secure their firearms from access by minors or individuals prohibited from possessing firearms. Failure to comply can result in fines, and if injury or death occurs due to an unsecured firearm, imprisonment.
Key points
Gun owners must store firearms to prevent access by minors (under 18) and individuals prohibited from possessing firearms.
Firearms must be secured (e.g., in a safe, with a safety device) or stored in a location a reasonable person would consider secure.
Violations are subject to a $500 fine per violation.
If an unsecured firearm causes injury or death, the owner faces fines, up to 5 years imprisonment, or both.
Improperly stored firearms may be seized and forfeited.
The law provides grants to states and Indian Tribes that enact similar safe storage laws.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_748
Sponsor: Rep. DeLauro, Rosa L. [D-CT-3]
Process start date: 2021-02-03
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-04-17
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Ethan's Law

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_748.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-02-03.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Gun owners must store firearms to prevent access by minors (under 18) and individuals prohibited from possessing firearms.
  • Firearms must be secured (e.g., in a safe, with a safety device) or stored in a location a reasonable person would consider secure.
  • Violations are subject to a $500 fine per violation.
  • If an unsecured firearm causes injury or death, the owner faces fines, up to 5 years imprisonment, or both.
  • Improperly stored firearms may be seized and forfeited.
  • The law provides grants to states and Indian Tribes that enact similar safe storage laws.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. DeLauro, Rosa L. [D-CT-3].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Security Courts and Law Family