The bill amends the General Laws in Chapter 11-47 entitled "Weapons" to enhance regulations on the safe storage of firearms. It revises the definition of unsafe storage of a firearm, making it an offense if a firearm is not secured in a locked container or equipped with a safety device when not in use. The penalties for violations include fines and potential imprisonment for repeat offenses. The bill also increases the age definition of a child from sixteen to eighteen and introduces the concept of criminal storage of a firearm in the first and second degrees, with varying punishments based on whether a child or prohibited person accesses the firearm and whether it is used to commit a crime or cause injury.

Furthermore, the bill requires licensed firearm dealers in Rhode Island to display informational signs about the risks of firearms in the home and the legal requirements for secure storage, in both English and Spanish. It also mandates that dealers provide printed information to firearm purchasers, covering risks, state laws on storage, and suicide prevention resources. The Department of Health and the Department of Education are tasked with developing information for students and families about secure gun storage and behavioral health resources, which school districts must distribute annually. The act includes civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance and will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5434: 11-47-60.1