Bill
HF 3497
HF 3497 requires stored loaded firearms be inaccessible to people legally prohibited from possessing firearms to improve public safety.
HF 3497 establishes a safety-oriented requirement for the storage of loaded firearms. The bill seeks to ensure that loaded firearms are kept in locations that are inaccessible to individuals who are legally prohibited from possessing firearms. The underlying aim is to reduce the risk of theft, misuse, or accidental access by at-risk populations (e.g., prohibited possessors) and to enhance public safety by limiting opportunities for unauthorized use of loaded firearms.
Storage requirement for loaded firearms: The bill requires that loaded firearms be stored in locations that cannot be accessed by persons who are legally prohibited from possessing firearms. The exact mechanics (e.g., types of storage devices, specific accessibility standards, or compliance methods) would be defined in the bill’s language and any accompanying administrative rules.
Target population for access limitations: Individuals who are legally prohibited from possessing firearms (e.g., certain convicted felons, individuals subject to protective orders, or others defined by Minnesota law) would be the focus of the access restrictions.
Scope and applicability: The provision addresses the storage of loaded firearms within households or other settings under the ownership or control of a person required to store firearms according to the bill. The precise exclusions (e.g., temporary transport, law enforcement, or certain professional circumstances) would be specified in the enacted text.
Enforcement and compliance: The bill would outline enforcement mechanisms, potential penalties for noncompliance, and any applicable fines or sanctions. It may also specify reporting, inspection, or notification requirements as part of compliance, though exact details would be in the bill.
Related definitions: The bill likely includes definitions for terms such as “loaded firearm,” “storage,” and “prohibited possessors,” to ensure consistent interpretation and enforcement.
Gun owners and household members: Individuals who own or have access to firearms in their homes or other settings would be directly affected by storage requirements.
Prohibited possessors: People legally barred from firearm possession would be a central focus of the enforcement logic, given the storage accessibility standard aims to prevent access by these individuals.
Lawful occupants and caretakers: Others who may be responsible for firearm storage (e.g., landlords, roommates, or guardians) could be affected insofar as they share access with prohibited or unsecured access points.
Law enforcement and regulatory agencies: Agencies responsible for enforcing firearm storage laws, monitoring compliance, and pursuing penalties would be involved in enforcement and oversight.
Introduction and first reading: HF 3497 was introduced and referred to Public Safety Finance and Policy on February 19, 2026. This marks the initial step in the legislative process.
Next steps in committee: As a finance and policy committee bill, it would proceed to hearings, potential amendments, and a committee vote. If advanced, it would move to the appropriate floor for consideration by the full House.
Sponsor: Co-sponsor Andrew Myers, indicating bipartisan or constituent-supported backing within the chamber.
Implementation timeline (not specified in summary): The bill’s text would specify effective dates, transition periods, and any phased rollout. If not immediately effective, it would provide a timeline for compliance after enactment.
The above summary reflects the information available from the bill’s introductory action and public-facing details. For precise language, definitions, enforcement mechanisms, penalties, and implementation dates, reviewing the full bill text and any fiscal notes or committee reports is recommended.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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