summary
Introduced
03/18/2025
03/18/2025
In Committee
03/20/2025
03/20/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/13/2025
06/13/2025
Introduced Session
132nd Legislature
Bill Summary
Under current law, it is a Class D crime to negligently store a loaded firearm in a manner that allows a child under 16 years of age to gain access to the loaded firearm without the permission of the child's parent. This bill repeals that law and makes it a Class D crime to negligently store a firearm so that a minor or person who is prohibited from possessing a firearm may gain access to the firearm and either use it in the commission of a crime or display it in a threatening manner. The bill also makes it a Class C crime to negligently store a firearm in a way so that a minor or prohibited person may gain access to the firearm and use it to cause the death of or serious bodily injury to any person. The bill also requires licensed firearms dealers to post a notice in any area where sales or transfers occur informing purchasers that access to a firearm in the home significantly increases the risk of suicide, death during domestic violence disputes and unintentional death of children.
AI Summary
This bill strengthens firearm storage regulations by introducing new requirements and criminal penalties related to negligent firearm storage. Specifically, the bill mandates that licensed firearms dealers must prominently display a warning notice at sales locations, informing purchasers about the increased risks of suicide, domestic violence deaths, and unintentional child deaths associated with firearm access in the home. The bill establishes new criminal offenses for negligent firearm storage, making it a Class D crime if a minor or prohibited person gains access to a firearm and uses it to commit a crime or display it threateningly, and a Class C crime if such access results in death or serious bodily injury. The notice required at firearms sales locations must be at least 8.5 by 11 inches, with specific text detailing the risks and providing a crisis services hotline number. The bill also provides exceptions to these requirements, such as when a firearm is carried by an authorized user, stored in a locked container, or used in self-defense. These provisions aim to reduce firearm-related accidents and misuse by promoting responsible storage practices and increasing awareness of potential risks.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (8)
Dan Sayre (D)*,
Mana Abdi (D),
Dan Ankeles (D),
Anne Carney (D),
Kristen Cloutier (D),
Vicki Doudera (D),
Lori Gramlich (D),
Amy Roeder (D),
Last Action
Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD) (on 06/13/2025)
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1120&snum=132 |
| Fiscal Note: Text | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_132nd/fiscalpdfs/FN112001.pdf |
| BillText | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP0739&item=1&snum=132 |
Loading...