The New Jersey Safe Storage of Firearms Act aims to enhance firearm safety by establishing specific storage requirements and penalties for improper storage. Under the new law, firearm owners must store unloaded firearms in a securely locked gun safe or container and keep ammunition stored separately in a locked box. If a firearm is accessed by another person due to improper storage, resulting in serious injury or death, the owner could face a fourth-degree crime charge. The bill also introduces community service requirements for first-time offenders and escalates penalties for repeat violations, including potential imprisonment and fines. Additionally, the Attorney General is tasked with creating a list of approved entities for community service related to gun violence prevention.

The bill repeals existing laws that only address minors' access to firearms, replacing them with broader storage requirements applicable to all firearm owners. It mandates that licensed firearms dealers provide written warnings about the new storage requirements and post signage in their establishments. Furthermore, a public awareness campaign will be funded with an appropriation of $500,000 to educate the public on the dangers of unsecured firearms and the penalties for violations. The Attorney General will also collect data on the law's implementation and its impact on public safety, submitting annual reports to the Legislature.