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Safe Firearm Storage: New Rules and State Support

This law introduces new obligations for firearm owners regarding safe storage in homes, especially when unauthorized individuals like children or those prohibited by law might access them. The aim is to reduce accidents, suicides, and crimes involving stolen firearms. Additionally, the law provides financial support to states and Indian tribes that implement similar regulations.
Key points
Mandatory Safe Storage: Firearm owners must secure their weapons (e.g., in a safe, with a trigger lock) or keep them in close proximity to prevent access by minors or prohibited individuals.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to secure a firearm carries a $500 fine. If an unsecured firearm is obtained by a minor or prohibited person and causes injury or death, the owner faces a fine, up to 5 years imprisonment, or both.
State Support: States and Indian tribes that enact similar safe firearm storage laws may receive federal grants to assist with enforcement and compliance.
Civil Liability: The law emphasizes that failure to comply with safe storage requirements can constitute negligence in civil cases, potentially leading to liability for damages caused by firearm discharge.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_660
Sponsor: Rep. DeLauro, Rosa L. [D-CT-3]
Process start date: 2023-01-31
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
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 118_HR_660.

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 2023-01-31.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Mandatory Safe Storage: Firearm owners must secure their weapons (e.g., in a safe, with a trigger lock) or keep them in close proximity to prevent access by minors or prohibited individuals.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to secure a firearm carries a $500 fine. If an unsecured firearm is obtained by a minor or prohibited person and causes injury or death, the owner faces a fine, up to 5 years imprisonment, or both.
  • State Support: States and Indian tribes that enact similar safe firearm storage laws may receive federal grants to assist with enforcement and compliance.
  • Civil Liability: The law emphasizes that failure to comply with safe storage requirements can constitute negligence in civil cases, potentially leading to liability for damages caused by firearm discharge.
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 House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

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