The bill S. 18 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by introducing Section 16-23-540, which establishes the offense of criminally negligent storage of a firearm. It defines key terms such as "child," "criminal negligence," and "secure," and outlines the responsibilities of firearm owners to prevent children from accessing readily dischargeable firearms. Under this new provision, individuals can be charged with a misdemeanor if a child gains access to a firearm due to the owner's failure to secure it or if the firearm is left in a location where the owner should have known a child could access it.

The bill also specifies penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment, with increased penalties if a child discharges the firearm and causes death or serious bodily injury. Additionally, it includes provisions for law enforcement regarding the arrest of family members in specific circumstances and mandates that firearm retailers post warnings about the legal responsibilities of firearm storage. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 16-23-540
Latest Version: 16-23-540