Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Menefee, Christian D. [D-TX-18]
- Committees
- Ways and Means Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 15, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to reduce firearm-related accidents, thefts, and unauthorized access by promoting and incentivizing safe firearm storage practices and devices through federal mandates, grants, and tax credits.
What it actually does
This bill establishes federal requirements for safe firearm storage promotion and device provision. It mandates the Attorney General to develop and publish best practices for safe firearm storage, requires licensed firearm manufacturers and importers to include a "SAFE STORAGE SAVES LIVES" notice with firearms, and expands the requirement for licensed dealers to provide a safe storage device to include rifles and shotguns, not just handguns. Additionally, it creates a grant program for states and Indian tribes to distribute safe storage devices and introduces a federal tax credit for the retail sale of such devices.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is a common-sense approach to enhance public safety by preventing accidental shootings, suicides, and firearm thefts, particularly those involving children. They contend that promoting safe storage through education, readily available devices, and financial incentives will significantly reduce preventable tragedies without infringing on Second Amendment rights. The bill's multi-pronged approach addresses various aspects of firearm ownership responsibly.
Opponents contend
Opponents may argue that these measures impose undue burdens on law-abiding firearm owners and businesses, potentially making firearms less accessible for self-defense in emergencies. They might contend that mandating specific storage devices or notices is an overreach of federal authority and that existing laws or voluntary efforts are sufficient. Concerns could also be raised about the cost of the tax credit and grant program, as well as potential privacy implications related to device distribution.
The bill is relatively short and clearly structured, allowing an informed reader to grasp its core provisions and implications within a reasonable timeframe.
Section 2
Establishment of Voluntary Safe Storage Best Practices
This section directs the Attorney General to create and publish voluntary guidelines for safely storing firearms in various locations like homes, vehicles, and businesses. These guidelines are intended for public education and must be updated annually after public input. The Attorney General must provide at least 90 days public notice and opportunity for hearing before establishing these best practices.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that providing clear, expert-backed guidance on safe storage is a crucial, non-coercive step to prevent firearm accidents and unauthorized access, especially by children, without infringing on rights.
Critics contend
Some opponents might argue that such guidelines, even if voluntary, could be a precursor to mandatory regulations or that the government should not dictate how individuals store their private property.
Tradeoffs
Balances the desire for public safety education with concerns about potential government overreach into private firearm ownership practices.
Section 3, amending 18 U.S.C. 923(m)
"SAFE STORAGE SAVES LIVES" Notice Requirement
Starting January 1, 2029, licensed manufacturers and importers who serialize at least 250 firearms annually must include a clear and conspicuous written notice stating "SAFE STORAGE SAVES LIVES" and the Attorney General's safe storage website address with every handgun, rifle, or shotgun sold. This notice must be attached to or appear on the packaging.
Section 4, amending 18 U.S.C. 922(z)
Expansion of Mandatory Safe Storage Device for All Firearm Sales
This section expands an existing federal law that requires licensed firearm dealers to provide a safe storage device (like a lock or safe) with the sale of a handgun. The amendment extends this requirement to include the sale of rifles and shotguns as well, making it applicable to all types of firearms. This provision takes effect 180 days after the bill's enactment.
Section 5
Safe Firearm Storage Grant Program
This section authorizes the Attorney General to award $10 million annually from fiscal years 2027 to 2037 to States and Indian Tribes. These grants fund Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs that acquire and distribute safe firearm storage devices to the public. The funds are allocated with at least 75% for direct programs and up to 25% for non-profits partnering with local governments.
Section 6, amending Internal Revenue Code of 1986
Retail Tax Credit for Safe Firearm Storage Devices
This section creates a new federal tax credit (Section 45BB) for businesses that sell safe firearm storage devices at retail. The credit is equal to 10% of the sale amount, up to a maximum of $400 per device. It applies to sales through December 31, 2035, and requires the Treasury Secretary to report annually on the total credit claimed by state. The credit is intended to incentivize the sale and potentially reduce the cost of these devices.
Defines a "safe firearm storage device" for the purposes of the grant program and tax credit. It specifies that such a device must be designed to deny unauthorized access or render a firearm/ammunition inoperable, and be secured by a combination, key, or biometric lock. For the tax credit, it explicitly excludes devices incorporated into firearms/ammunition or those subject to a mandatory recall.
Section 5(b)(1) and Section 6(c)(1-2)
Why it matters:Standard legislative practice to define terms in dedicated subsections to ensure clarity and consistency across the bill's provisions.
Case for: Ensures that only legitimate and effective safe storage devices qualify for federal support and tax benefits, preventing misuse of funds or incentives for inadequate products and maintaining product safety standards.
Case against: No strong case against the definition itself, but the specific exclusions in the tax credit section (e.g., integrated safety features) could be debated if certain firearm designs incorporate effective, non-removable safety mechanisms.
Estimated impact: Directly impacts which products are eligible for federal support and tax benefits, thereby shaping the market for safe storage solutions and influencing consumer choices.
Specifies that the expansion of the safe storage device requirement, which mandates licensed dealers to provide a safe storage device with the sale of rifles and shotguns, takes effect 180 days after the date of the bill's enactment.
Section 4(b)
Why it matters:Standard legislative practice to specify effective dates, often placed at the end of the section they pertain to, to allow for a transition period.
Case for: Provides a reasonable transition period for licensed firearm dealers to acquire and integrate the necessary safe storage devices into their inventory and sales processes, minimizing disruption to businesses.
Case against: Some might argue the 180-day period is either too long, delaying the public safety benefits of the expanded mandate, or too short, posing an undue burden on small businesses to adapt quickly.
Estimated impact: Determines the precise timing when the expanded mandate on firearm dealers begins, directly impacting their operational readiness and when consumers will start receiving devices with rifle/shotgun purchases.