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SB 404

Unlawful possession of a firearm by a child.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Taylor

SB 404 establishes criminal penalties for minors who unlawfully possess firearms, aiming to reduce juvenile gun access and enhance public safety enforcement in Indiana.

First reading: referred to Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 404

Legislative bill overview

SB 404 addresses unlawful possession of firearms by children in Indiana. The bill establishes or modifies criminal penalties for minors who possess firearms without authorization. This legislation aims to reduce juvenile access to guns and establish clear legal consequences for violations.

Why is this important

Child firearm access remains a significant public safety concern, with unintended shootings, suicides, and school safety incidents involving minors and unsecured weapons. Clear statutory definitions and penalties help law enforcement enforce existing gun safety laws and may incentivize responsible firearm storage by adults. The bill reflects ongoing policy debates about youth accountability versus parental liability in firearm safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Severity of penalties: Disagreement over whether criminal charges are appropriate for minors versus parental/guardian accountability, and whether penalties should differ by age or intent
  • Scope of "unlawful possession": Definition questions—does this include handling firearms under adult supervision, accidental access, or only intentional unauthorized possession?
  • Enforcement fairness: Concerns about disparate enforcement across different communities and whether criminalization addresses root causes like inadequate firearm storage or education

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

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