Senate study committee publishes firearm safe‑storage report and outlines six recommendations

Senator Jones, chair of the Firearm Safe Storage Study Committee, convened a brief meeting to publish the committee's report and outline six recommendations aimed at reducing firearm access among children and improving school safety. "The sole purpose of this meeting today is to publish this report and to share the recommendations," Jones said, directing attendees to findings on page 19 of the draft report.

Jones said the committee's work was shaped by a recent school mass shooting and testimony from other states. Citing testimony that Utah has emphasized early intervention and mental‑health measures, she said Georgia should consider similar approaches. "What they're doing in Utah is...early intervention, trying to get kids the kind of services they need before something tragic happens," Jones said.

The chair summarized six numbered recommendations listed in the report. First, she proposed a statewide alert protocol that would require notification when a student flagged for potentially dangerous behavior seeks to transfer to another school, a measure she said Superintendent Woods supports. Second, the report recommends expanding mental‑health supports and awareness, drawing on what committee members described as multiple mental‑health bills enacted or proposed in other states.

Third, Jones said the committee recommends child access prevention laws that could impose civil and criminal penalties on parents or caregivers who allow a child access to a loaded firearm. "I am committed to passing these child access prevention laws," she said. Fourth, the report urges promotion of safe‑storage devices and incentives such as homeowner‑insurance benefits or premium reductions to encourage safe storage in households.

Fifth, the committee recommends creating a director position—similar to roles in Texas, North Carolina and Utah—to coordinate safe‑storage efforts; Jones said housing such a position in the governor's office or creating it legislatively are both possibilities. Sixth, she relayed a recommendation attributed to Chairman Ginn for a 10‑day waiting period on assault‑rifle purchases unless the buyer holds a weapons‑carry license, saying the delay could allow time to address concerns about immediate access.

Jones said she will draft legislation with committee members and seek support from the governor's office and House leadership; she noted Speaker Burns had indicated willingness to meet on the proposals. The report documents four committee meetings and was compiled with assistance from Senate Research, Senate Press and legislative counsel. No formal votes or motions were recorded in the public meeting. The chair thanked staff and participants, invited questions and adjourned the meeting.