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Bill

HR 1564

Ethan's Law

119th Congress Introduced by Alma Adams and 190 co-sponsors

Ethan's Law mandates secure firearm storage to prevent access by minors, aiming to reduce unintentional shootings and gun violence, with penalties for non-compliance.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 1564

Summary of HR 1564: Ethan's Law

Overview

Bill Number: HR 1564
Title: Ethan's Law
Introduced: February 25, 2025
Status: Introduced in House
Primary Sponsor: Rosa L. DeLauro
Cosponsors: Over 100 members of Congress

Ethan's Law aims to enhance firearm safety by mandating secure storage of firearms in homes, particularly to prevent access by minors and individuals prohibited from possessing firearms.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Ethan's Law is to reduce the incidence of unintentional shootings, youth suicides, and gun violence associated with unsecured firearms in homes. The bill seeks to address the alarming statistics regarding minors' access to firearms and the associated risks.

Key Provisions

  1. Secure Gun Storage Requirement:

    • The bill amends Section 922 of Title 18, United States Code, to make it unlawful for individuals to store firearms in a manner that allows minors or prohibited individuals to access them.
    • Exceptions are provided if firearms are stored securely using a safety device or in a location deemed secure by a reasonable person.

  2. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • Individuals who violate the secure storage requirement may face a fine of $500 per violation.
    • Enhanced penalties apply if a minor or prohibited individual gains access to the firearm and causes injury or death, potentially leading to fines or imprisonment for up to 5 years.

  3. Firearm Safe Storage Program:

    • Establishes a grant program to assist states and Indian tribes in implementing laws that align with the secure storage requirements of the bill.
    • Grants are available once a state or tribe enacts a law that is functionally identical to the federal requirement.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The law primarily impacts firearm owners, particularly those with minors in their households.
    • It also affects states and Indian tribes that may seek grants to support safe storage initiatives.

  • Public Safety:

    • By enforcing secure storage, the bill aims to significantly decrease the number of firearm-related incidents involving minors, thereby enhancing community safety.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Journey:
    • HR 1564 was introduced and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on February 25, 2025.
    • The bill has garnered substantial bipartisan support, with numerous cosponsors from various states.

Conclusion

Ethan's Law represents a proactive approach to firearm safety, emphasizing the importance of secure storage to protect minors and reduce gun-related tragedies. As it progresses through Congress, the bill's implications for public safety and community well-being will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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