HB5854 - Safe Gun Storage Act Summary

• Requires firearm owners to securely store guns in locked containers or engaged safety devices when minors, at-risk persons, or prohibited persons are likely to access them; exception for firearms carried by or under direct control of the owner.

• Establishes civil penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 depending on violation severity, with funds deposited into the Mental Health Fund and enforcement authority given to the Attorney General and State's Attorneys.

• Makes firearm storage violations prima facie evidence of negligence per se in civil proceedings if unauthorized access results in injury, death, or criminal use.

• Creates nonrefundable income tax credit up to $300 per taxpayer for firearm safety device purchases from federally licensed dealers for tax years 2025-2029, with $5 million annual aggregate cap allocated on first-come, first-served basis.

• Amends Criminal Code Section 24-9 to expand the age threshold from 14 to 18 years and change the legal standard from "has reason to believe" to "knows or reasonably should know" regarding unauthorized minor access to firearms.