H.R. 8619: Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act

The Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act proposes several measures aimed at promoting the safe storage of firearms. Here is a summary of its key components:

Best Practices for Safe Firearm Storage

Within 180 days of the bill's enactment, the Attorney General is required to establish voluntary guidelines for safe firearm storage intended for public education. These guidelines will specifically address:

• Businesses
• Vehicles
• Private homes
• Off-site storage facilities
• Other appropriate locations as determined by the Attorney General

The guidelines will be published a year after enactment and reviewed annually to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Promotion of Safe Firearm Storage

Starting January 1, 2029, licensed manufacturers and importers of firearms are required to include a promotional notice with each firearm sale that states, “SAFE STORAGE SAVES LIVES,” along with a link to the public website established by the Attorney General for firearm storage guidelines.

Safe Storage Devices for All Firearm Sales

The bill mandates that all sales of firearms must include safe storage devices to be kept with the firearm. This addresses both handguns and long guns, expanding previous regulations that only covered handguns.

Safe Firearm Storage Grant Program

The Attorney General will have the authority to provide grants to states and tribal governments aimed at developing and implementing Safe Firearm Storage Assistance Programs. This proposal includes:

• A definition of "safe firearm storage device" as a product designed to deny unauthorized access or render a firearm inoperable.
• Grant application requirements that include identifying additional funding sources.
• An annual reporting requirement for grantees to detail the distribution of storage devices.
• An authorization for appropriations of $10 million per year from 2027 to 2037 for this program.

Prevent Family Fire Safe Firearm Storage Credit

The bill introduces a tax credit for individuals and businesses that purchase safe firearm storage devices. Specifically, it:

• Allows a 10% credit for the first retail sale of a safe firearm storage device.
• Sets a cap on the credit amount to a maximum of $400 per device.
• Defines "safe firearm storage device" in a manner similar to that outlined under the grant program.

The tax credit program is set to be effective for taxable years after the enactment of this bill through December 31, 2035.

Severability

The bill includes a clause stating that if any part of it is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still remain in effect.

Relevant Companies

• RGR - Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.: As a major firearm manufacturer, Ruger's compliance with the new safe storage requirements and potential increased demand for safe storage devices could impact its operations.
• SWHC - Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.: Similar to Ruger, Smith & Wesson will need to adapt its product offerings and marketing to align with the new legislative requirements.
• AOUT - American Outdoor Brands Corporation: As a provider of outdoor products, including firearms, the company may see changes in retail strategies in response to the safe storage device mandate.