Assembly Bill 356 introduces new regulations regarding the storage of firearms in residences where children under the age of 18 are present. The bill prohibits individuals from storing or leaving a firearm in their home unless it is secured in a locked box, container, or location, or has a trigger lock engaged. Violations of this prohibition will result in a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class I felony for subsequent offenses. This new law replaces the existing statute that penalizes reckless storage of loaded firearms accessible to children under 14, which had different criteria for penalties based on the child's actions.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes related to the consideration of circumstances by district attorneys and law enforcement officers when dealing with alleged violations of firearm storage laws. Specifically, it removes references to previous penalties and clarifies that if a parent or guardian of a child is involved in an accidental shooting, law enforcement cannot arrest them until at least seven days after the incident. This change aims to provide a more structured approach to handling such sensitive situations while emphasizing the importance of secure firearm storage in homes with children.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 948.55, 968.02(4), 968.02, 968.07(3), 968.07