Bill > HB1325

This bill amends Indiana law to establish new criminal offenses and requirements related to firearm storage. The key provisions are: 1. It creates a new offense of "neglect of a dependent" if a person having care of a dependent fails to secure a loaded firearm in their residence or vehicle, and the dependent uses the firearm to cause bodily injury or death. This offense is a Level 6 felony, enhanced to a Level 5 felony for repeat offenders. 2. It defines key terms related to firearms, including "antique firearm," "inoperable firearm," and "loaded firearm," for the purposes of the new neglect offense. 3. It requires retail firearm dealers to display a sign informing customers that failing to secure a loaded firearm is a felony if a dependent uses it to cause injury or death. Violating this sign requirement is a class C infraction, increased to a class A infraction for repeat violations. 4. It provides some exceptions, such as for antique firearms or firearms carried on one's person, that do not apply to the new neglect offense. The bill aims to promote responsible firearm storage and hold caretakers accountable if a dependent accesses and misuses an unsecured firearm, causing harm.