Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate approves voluntary firearm storage bill expanding 'cohabitant' definition
Summary
House Bill 152 expands the statutory definition of 'cohabitant' and allows voluntary, no-questions-asked firearm transfers to law enforcement for safe storage; proponents said the measure is a voluntary safety option, and the Senate passed it 21–2.
House Bill 152, described on the Senate floor by Senator Milner, clarifies and expands the statutory definition of "cohabitants" and creates a voluntary process for temporarily transferring firearms to law enforcement for safe storage.
Milner said the measure permits any individual 18 and over who resides in a home "as if a spouse" to qualify as a cohabitant in the statute’s safety provisions, and emphasized the voluntary nature: "No confiscation of firearms from law enforcement or any government official. It's completely voluntary." Supporters argued the bill gives families another option during crises—such as when a family member shows signs of suicide—without criminal penalties.
Senator Maine, a gun owner who supported the bill, said the measure was "a good piece of legislation" that will help families in difficult situations. With limited floor discussion the Senate approved HB152 by roll call (21 yeas, 2 nays, 6 absent) and the bill was returned to the House for the Speaker’s signature.
What’s next: The bill’s mechanics for storage, custody and retrieval by owners will be governed by local law enforcement practices and implementing guidance.
