Secure Storage Information Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Rep. Sherrill, Mikie [D-NJ-11]
- Committees
- Ways and Means Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Feb 12, 2025
Bottom line
The bill seeks to enhance firearm safety by requiring FFLs to educate purchasers and offer diverse storage options, while also providing a tax incentive for consumers to acquire secure storage devices.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that Federal firearms licensees (FFLs) provide secure firearm storage information to prospective firearm transferees and stock a variety of secure gun storage devices. Additionally, it establishes a new federal income tax credit for individuals who purchase qualified gun safes, aiming to incentivize safer storage practices.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that promoting secure firearm storage through education, increased availability of devices, and financial incentives is a common-sense approach to reduce accidental shootings, suicides, and firearm theft without infringing on Second Amendment rights. They contend that these measures foster responsible gun ownership and save lives.
Opponents contend
Opponents may argue that mandating information and stocking requirements for FFLs imposes undue burdens on businesses and that a tax credit for gun safes is an inappropriate use of taxpayer money, potentially constituting an overreach of federal involvement in personal firearm ownership decisions.
The bill is relatively short and clearly structured, making it accessible for a quick evaluation by an informed reader.
Section 2(a) amending 18 U.S.C. 922(z)(1)
Mandate for Secure Storage Information
This provision makes it unlawful for licensed firearm dealers to sell or transfer a firearm unless they provide the transferee with specific information about secure firearm storage, as prescribed by the Attorney General. The required information must include guidance on storing firearms unloaded, out of reach of unauthorized persons, separately from ammunition, secured with a locking device, and data on the risks of unsecured firearms, along with advice on the most secure types of devices.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is a minimal burden on FFLs that provides crucial, life-saving information to new gun owners, promoting responsible gun ownership and reducing preventable tragedies.
Critics contend
Critics might argue this adds an unnecessary regulatory burden on FFLs and assumes gun owners are not already aware of safe storage practices, potentially treating them as irresponsible.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for public safety through education with potential regulatory burdens on businesses and the principle of individual responsibility for firearm ownership.
Section 3 amending 18 U.S.C. 923(d)(1)(G) and (e)
Mandate for Variety of Secure Storage Devices
This provision amends existing law to require certain Federal firearms licensees to have a variety of secure gun storage or safety devices available for purchase in their stores. It explicitly lists examples such as full-size gun safes, lock boxes and lockers, gun cases, or cable and trigger locks, expanding on the previous general requirement to offer 'secure gun storage or safety devices.'
Section 5, inserting new Section 25F into the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
Federal Tax Credit for Qualified Gun Safes
This section establishes a new non-refundable federal income tax credit for individuals who purchase a 'qualified gun safe.' The credit amount is equal to the cost paid for the safe, up to a lifetime maximum of $500 per taxpayer. A 'qualified gun safe' is broadly defined to include any safe, gun safe, gun case, lock box, or other device designed for secure, fully-contained storage of firearms, unlockable only by authorized users. The basis of the property is reduced by the credit amount, and no double benefit (deduction plus credit) is allowed.