VT H0264

Requires firearm owners to store firearms separate from ammunition and in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant safety device when a child (under 18) or prohibited person is likely to gain access

Creates tiered penalties: fine up to $100 for basic violations; up to 1 year imprisonment and/or $1,000 fine if a child or prohibited person uses the firearm in a crime or threatens with it; up to 5 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine if it causes death or serious bodily injury

Exempts firearms carried by or within close proximity of the owner, firearms accessed through illegal entry, and firearms used in lawful self-defense

Requires licensed firearm dealers to display warning signs (minimum 8.5" x 11") about suicide risks, domestic violence dangers, and Vermont's secure storage requirements, including crisis hotline information (988 and text "VT" to 741741)

Takes effect upon passage and amends existing 13 V.S.A. § 4024 to require safe storage regardless of whether anyone actually accesses the unsecured firearm