The bill amends Section 11-47-60.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-47, which pertains to the safe and unsafe storage of firearms, and introduces the designation "Dillons Law" in the section heading. The bill establishes that individuals who fail to secure firearms in a locked container or with a tamper-resistant lock are guilty of unsafe storage. The penalties for unsafe storage include a civil infraction with a fine of up to $250 for a first offense, a fine of up to $1,000 for a second offense, and for a third or subsequent violation, imprisonment for up to six months or a fine of up to $500.

Additionally, the bill outlines criminal storage offenses, particularly when a firearm is accessed by a child or a prohibited person. If a child or prohibited person gains access to a firearm and uses it in a crime or causes injury, the storage offense escalates to first-degree criminal storage, which is punishable by up to five years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000. The bill clarifies that certain circumstances, such as illegal entry or proper firearm storage, may exempt individuals from liability under these provisions. It also emphasizes that prosecution of parents or guardians in cases of accidental shootings will only occur in instances of gross negligence. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5263: 11-47-60.1