Bill > AB356

This bill introduces new requirements for firearm storage in residences where children under 18 are present or may be present. Specifically, the bill mandates that firearms must be stored in a securely locked box, container, or locked location that a reasonable person would consider secure, or have a trigger lock engaged. The law applies to residents who either live with a child under 18 or know that such a child will be in the residence. Violations of this storage requirement carry escalating penalties: a first offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, while subsequent offenses become a Class I felony. This legislation replaces an existing law that previously only penalized reckless storage of loaded firearms if a child under 14 obtained the weapon and discharged it or used it in a way that caused harm or endangered public safety. The bill also modifies related statutes to reference the new firearm storage requirements, including provisions that allow district attorneys and law enforcement to consider the context of accidental shootings when deciding how to proceed with potential charges. The goal of the bill appears to be preventing accidental firearm incidents involving children by mandating safer storage practices.

Justice

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab356