Firearm in Unattended Vehicle/Safely Store
Plain English Summary
This bill makes it illegal to leave a firearm unattended in a motor vehicle unless both the vehicle is locked and the firearm is either secured with a trigger lock or stored in a locked container. Violation is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor, with the law taking effect December 1, 2025.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this bill prevents unauthorized access to firearms left in vehicles, particularly protecting children and reducing theft of guns that could be used in crimes. They contend that safe storage requirements are a reasonable public safety measure that allows responsible gun ownership while reducing risks associated with unsecured weapons in accessible locations.
Arguments Against
Opponents argue the bill places restrictions on lawful gun owners' property rights and raises concerns about enforcement challenges and inconsistent application. They contend that responsible gun owners already store firearms safely and worry the law could criminalize honest mistakes or situations where immediate access might be necessary for self-defense.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 30
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 112
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 101
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 34
Cosponsors (23)
Representative · District 48
Representative · District 92
Representative · District 36
Representative · District 18
Representative · District 102
Representative · District 41
Representative · District 100
Representative · District 61
Representative · District 99
Representative · District 8
Representative · District 27
Representative · District 40
Representative · District 49
Representative · District 56
Representative · District 66
Representative · District 33
Representative · District 6
Representative · District 31
Representative · District 88
Representative · District 54
Representative · District 57
Representative · District 98
Representative · District 103