A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure and to make an appropriation.

Plain English Breakdown

The specific instances that would increase the crime from a Level 6 felony to a Level 5 felony are not detailed in the official source.

Firearm Safety Rules for Dependents

This bill changes Indiana law to make it a crime if someone in charge of a child does not safely store loaded firearms, leading to injury or death.

What This Bill Does

• Makes it illegal for people taking care of children to leave loaded guns unsecured at home or in cars, which could cause the child to hurt others with them.
• Increases punishment if the child uses an unsecured gun and causes serious harm or death.
• Requires stores that sell firearms to put up signs about safe storage.
• Tells doctors and nurses to teach parents how to safely store guns when they visit their children for check-ups.

Who It Names or Affects

• People who take care of children
• Retail stores that sell firearms
• Healthcare providers like doctors and nurses

Terms To Know

Level 6 felony

A serious crime with a punishment of up to two and a half years in prison.

Neglect of a dependent

When someone who is supposed to take care of a child fails to provide proper safety or supervision.

Limits and Unknowns

• The bill does not specify what 'particular instances' are that would increase the crime from a Level 6 felony to a Level 5 felony.
• It's unclear how much money will be given for educational materials and training about firearm safety.

Official Summary Text

A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure and to
make an appropriation.
Firearm storage.

Current Bill Text

A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure and to
make an appropriation.

Firearm storage.

Provides that a person having the care of a dependent who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally fails to secure a loaded firearm in the person's residence or vehicle commits neglect of a dependent, a Level 6 felony, if the dependent uses the firearm to cause bodily injury or death to any person. Enhances the offense to a Level 5 felony in particular instances. Specifies exceptions and defenses. Specifies sign requirements for retail dealers. Requires the Indiana department of health to develop educational resources and training concerning secure firearm storage for pediatric health care practitioners. Allows certain practitioners, at each well-child visit, to ask the child's parent or guardian about firearm safety and provide information concerning secure firearm storage practices. Defines terms and makes conforming amendments. Makes an appropriation.