Bill > H167

This bill introduces a new law in North Carolina that prohibits leaving a firearm in an unattended motor vehicle unless certain safety precautions are taken. Specifically, the law requires that when a firearm is left in an unoccupied vehicle, the vehicle must be locked, and the firearm must be either secured with a trigger lock or other safety device designed to prevent unauthorized use, or stored in a locked container. The bill defines "firearm" using an existing definition from North Carolina General Statute 14-408.1. Violation of this requirement would be considered a Class 2 misdemeanor, which typically carries potential penalties such as a fine and/or up to 60 days in jail. The law is set to take effect on December 1, 2025, and will apply to offenses committed on or after that date. The intent of this legislation appears to be preventing unauthorized access to firearms and reducing the risk of theft or misuse of weapons left in vehicles.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H167