The proposed bill amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to introduce a new section, 6143, which addresses the offense of unauthorized access to firearms. It mandates that firearm possessors must securely store their firearms when not in use, defining secure storage as either carrying the firearm or keeping it within close proximity for easy retrieval. Violations of this requirement are classified as a summary offense, unless the possessor knew or should have known that a minor or unauthorized user could access the unsecured firearm, in which case it is classified as a misdemeanor of the third degree.

Additionally, the bill establishes civil liability for individuals whose unsecured firearms result in bodily injury or property damage, regardless of any criminal prosecution. It also provides an affirmative defense for possessors if the firearm was accessed due to unlawful entry or self-defense. Retailers are required to display a notice regarding the secure storage of firearms, with violations constituting a misdemeanor of the third degree. The bill includes definitions for key terms such as "firearm," "gun safe," "locking device," "minor," "securely store," and "unauthorized user." The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 3545 (Jun 08, 2026): P.L.6, NO.2