Bill Summary for H 254 (2023-2024)

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Summary date: 

Mar 1 2023

Bill Information:

View NCGA Bill Details2023-2024 Session
House Bill 254 (Public) Filed Wednesday, March 1, 2023
AN ACT TO REQUIRE A PERSON WHO OWNS OR POSSESSES A FIREARM AND RESIDES IN THE SAME PREMISES AS A MINOR TO STORE OR KEEP THE FIREARM IN A LOCKED CONTAINER EXCEPT WHEN THE FIREARM IS BEING LAWFULLY CARRIED OR USED.
Intro. by A. Jones, Morey, Hawkins.

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Bill summary

Repeals GS 14-315.1, concerning storage of firearms to protect minors.

Enacts new GS 14-315.1A which requires a person who owns or possesses a firearm and resides in the same premises as a minor to store or keep the firearm in a locked container, except when it is being carried or used by the owner or any lawfully authorized user. Makes violations a Class A1 misdemeanor. Provides that if a minor accesses a firearm stored or kept in violation of these requirements and the minor uses the firearm in a way that results in injury to a person or property, the person whose property or person is injured may sue for and recover treble damages, costs, and attorneys' fees from the person who violated the requirements. 

Amends GS 14-315.2 by updating the notice required to be posted at the purchase counter of any sales outlet that sells firearms, to include notification that a firearm that a reasonable person should know is accessible to a minor must be in a locked container. Makes additional conforming changes.

Applies to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2023.