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Bill

Bill

A 814

Relates to the safe storage of firearms and child access prevention; repealer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Benedetto and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 814 mandates safe firearm storage to prevent child access, holding owners accountable for unsecured guns, enhancing safety for families and reducing accidental shootings.

SIGNED CHAP.26
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 814

Summary of Bill A 814: Safe Storage of Firearms and Child Access Prevention

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 814
  • Title: Relates to the safe storage of firearms and child access prevention; repealer
  • Status: Signed into law (Chapter 26)
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 814 is to enhance the safety of children by establishing requirements for the safe storage of firearms. The bill aims to prevent unauthorized access to firearms by minors, thereby reducing the risk of accidental shootings and other firearm-related incidents involving children.

Key Provisions

  1. Safe Storage Requirements:

    • The bill mandates that firearms must be stored in a manner that is inaccessible to children. This may include the use of safes, lockboxes, or other secure storage methods.

  2. Child Access Prevention:

    • The legislation includes provisions that hold firearm owners accountable if a child gains access to an unsecured firearm. This aims to encourage responsible gun ownership and storage practices.

  3. Repeal of Previous Legislation:

    • Bill A 814 repeals certain existing laws related to firearm storage and child access prevention, streamlining regulations and potentially updating standards to reflect current safety practices.

Affected Parties

  • Firearm Owners: Individuals who own firearms will be directly impacted by the new storage requirements and potential liabilities.
  • Children and Families: The bill is designed to protect children from the dangers associated with unsafely stored firearms, thereby promoting safer home environments.
  • Law Enforcement: The implementation of this bill may require law enforcement agencies to adjust their protocols regarding firearm safety inspections and enforcement of the new regulations.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 08, 2025: Bill A 814 was introduced and referred to the Codes Committee.
  • January 22, 2025: The bill was reported and ordered to third reading.
  • January 28, 2025: Passed in the Assembly and delivered to the Senate.
  • February 03, 2025: Passed in the Senate, returned to the Assembly, and substituted for companion bill S 746.
  • February 12, 2025: Delivered to the Governor.
  • February 14, 2025: Signed into law, becoming Chapter 26.

Conclusion

Bill A 814 represents a significant step towards improving firearm safety in homes with children. By establishing clear storage requirements and holding firearm owners accountable, the legislation seeks to mitigate the risks associated with child access to firearms. The repeal of outdated laws also indicates a move towards more effective and relevant regulations in the realm of firearm safety.

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

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