Yolo County Launches Smart Week to Combat Children's Gun Violence

The Yolo County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 26, 2025, focused heavily on addressing gun violence, particularly its impact on children and teens. The meeting began with a stark reminder that gun violence is the leading cause of death among young people in the United States, prompting calls for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.

A key highlight was the introduction of the second annual Smart Week, organized by Everytown for Gun Safety's Be Smart campaign. This initiative aims to raise awareness about safe gun storage practices within the community. Officials emphasized that simple measures, such as storing firearms unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition, can significantly reduce the risk of accidental harm to children.

Support from local law enforcement, including the sheriff's department and the district attorney's office, was acknowledged as crucial in reinforcing responsible gun ownership. The meeting featured passionate speeches from community advocates, including Laura Hackett from Moms Demand Action, who stressed the importance of educating the public about secure gun storage. Hackett shared personal experiences to highlight the need for adults to model responsible behavior and to inquire about gun safety in homes where their children visit.

The discussions underscored a collective responsibility among community members to ensure safety, particularly as the back-to-school season approaches. The meeting concluded with a call to action for all adults to engage in safe practices, regardless of their personal stance on gun ownership. The Board of Supervisors expressed gratitude for the community's involvement and commitment to making Yolo County a safer place for children and families.