Bill > HB525

This bill amends Pennsylvania's Crimes and Offenses law to create a new offense of "Access to Firearms by Minors." The key provisions are: 1) Requires gun owners to store firearms in a securely locked box or container, or in a secure location, if they know or should reasonably know a minor may access the firearm without the lawful permission of the minor's parent or guardian. 2) Establishes grading for violations - a summary offense for a first offense, and a misdemeanor of the third degree for second or subsequent offenses. A felony of the third degree applies if the firearm is used in a crime or event resulting in death or serious injury. 3) Provides several defenses, such as if the firearm is securely stored, obtained through unlawful entry, or used under adult supervision for lawful purposes. 4) Requires gun retailers to post a conspicuous notice about the law, with violation being a misdemeanor of the third degree. 5) Requires fingerprinting of defendants charged with the summary offense, to determine if it is a first or subsequent offense.