The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 61-7-13, which mandates the safe storage of firearms. Under this legislation, individuals who store or leave a loaded firearm on premises they control must ensure that it is secured in a locked box or container, or with a trigger lock, if there is a reasonable likelihood that a minor could access it without proper permission or supervision. Violators of this provision would be guilty of a misdemeanor, facing fines ranging from $50 to $500, or potential jail time of up to one year, or both.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a minor gains access to a firearm due to improper storage and subsequently possesses or exhibits it in a public place or in a threatening manner, the individual responsible for the firearm could face further misdemeanor charges. This section includes an exception for cases where the minor obtains the firearm through unlawful entry. The bill defines a "minor" as any person under the age of 16, emphasizing the importance of responsible firearm storage to prevent access by young individuals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-7-13