This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to the sale, transfer, and storage of firearms, with a focus on the responsibilities of adults regarding the safe storage of firearms to prevent access by minors. It revises the definition of "minor" to refer to individuals younger than 18 years of age and establishes new criminal penalties for adults who store or leave loaded firearms within easy access of minors. Specifically, if a minor obtains a firearm and uses it to inflict injury or death, the adult responsible for the firearm may face felony charges. Additionally, the bill outlines safe storage requirements, mandating that firearms be kept in securely locked containers or with firearm locking mechanisms, and provides exceptions under certain circumstances.
The bill also includes provisions for firearm dealers, requiring them to provide safety brochures and information on local voluntary firearm safety programs at the time of sale. It establishes penalties for non-compliance with these requirements and clarifies that organizations providing safety information are not liable for injuries resulting from the accidental discharge of firearms. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and aims to enhance the safety of firearm storage practices to protect minors from accidental harm.
Statutes affected: S 180 Filed: 784.05, 790.115, 790.174, 790.175, 921.0022