Louisiana House passes child access prevention bill to enhance firearm safety

In a significant session of the Louisiana House of Representatives on May 22, 2025, lawmakers engaged in critical discussions surrounding public safety and gun ownership, culminating in the passage of a controversial bill aimed at preventing unintentional firearm injuries among children.

The meeting began with Representative Brett Miller introducing an amendment to a medical board bill, which was adopted without objection. However, the most impactful discussion arose from House Bill 220, presented by Representative Willard, which seeks to implement a Child Access Prevention law. This legislation aims to hold gun owners accountable for improperly stored firearms that minors can access, thereby addressing Louisiana's alarming rate of unintentional shootings involving children.

Representative Willard highlighted the state's troubling statistics, noting that Louisiana has the highest rate of unintentional shootings by children in the nation. He emphasized the need for responsible gun ownership and the importance of safe storage practices. The bill proposes that if a child accesses a firearm and discharges it, the gun owner could face misdemeanor charges if the firearm was not securely stored.

The debate surrounding the bill was intense, with lawmakers expressing a range of opinions. Supporters argued that the legislation is a necessary step to protect children and prevent tragic accidents, while opponents raised concerns about potential infringements on Second Amendment rights and the implications of holding parents liable for accidents. Representative Willard shared a poignant story about a mother who lost her son to an accidental shooting, reinforcing the emotional weight behind the proposed law.

Despite the passionate arguments on both sides, the bill ultimately failed to pass, with a vote tally of 39 in favor and 46 against. This outcome reflects the ongoing struggle within the legislature to balance public safety concerns with individual rights regarding gun ownership.

In addition to the discussions on gun safety, the session also addressed various other legislative matters, including modifications to motor vehicle registration taxes and the appointment of counsel in pretrial procedures. However, the focus on child safety and responsible gun ownership dominated the conversation, highlighting the critical need for ongoing dialogue and action in addressing firearm-related incidents in Louisiana.

As the session concluded, the future of House Bill 220 remains uncertain, but the discussions it sparked are likely to continue influencing legislative priorities in the state.