“Safe Storage for Gun Safety” Package Addresses Violence Prevention

MADISON, WI  — Today State Representative Deb Andraca (D-Whitefish Bay) joined colleagues in releasing the “Safe Storage for Gun Safety” package of six bills designed to address the challenge of keeping legally-owned firearms away from children and people prohibited from owning guns, such as violent criminals.

“Owning a gun is a Constitutional right, but rights come with responsibilities too,” said Andraca. “It is every gun owner’s responsibility to ensure the safety of those around them. This includes protecting one’s immediate family from accidental shootings and taking practical measures to ensure one’s firearms are not stolen and used for criminal purposes.”

LRB-1100 would require lost or stolen firearms to be reported as missing within 24 hours. This legislation enables law enforcement to trace guns more effectively and makes successful prosecution more likely.

LRB-0936 would require that when a gun shop is closed or unattended, firearms must be secured in a safe, locked steel gun cabinet, or vault; in a steel-framed display case with specified reinforcements; with a hardened steel rod or cable; in a windowless, internal room that is equipped with a steel security door; or behind a steel roll-down door or security gate. These measures would prevent criminals who break into a gun store from simply walking off with as many handguns and rifles they can carry. Local law enforcement were consulted in the drafting of this bill and support the legislation.

LRB-5408 requires a gun owner to store firearms in a locked container or with a locking device engaged, except when carrying the firearm, if a person who cannot legally possess a firearm lives in the residence.

LRB-1097 requires a gun owner to store firearms in a locked container or have a locking device engaged, except when carrying the firearm, if there is a child living in the residence or if a child is present in the residence.

LRB-1099 would require that during a sale or transfer of a firearm, the seller must provide the individual receiving the gun with a secure lockable container or trigger lock for the firearm.

LRB-4334 deters firearm negligence by adding a Class A misdemeanor if an individual leaves a firearm in their unattended and unlocked vehicle, and the firearm is subsequently stolen. It is important that stolen weapons are reported to law enforcement. Under LRB-4334, if an individual self-reports a gun theft from an unlocked vehicle, no arrest or prosecution may occur.

For more information on how to safely store firearms in your home or vehicle, visit BeSMART for Kids at www.besmartforkids.org

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.