HB 179

Abstract

Amends the Criminal Code of 1961. Provides that it is unlawful for any person to store or leave, within premises under his or her control, a firearm if the person knows or has reason to believe that a minor under the age of 18 (rather than 14) years who does not have a Firearm Owners Identification Card or who is not serving in the military is likely to gain access to the firearm without the lawful permission of the minor's parent, guardian, or person having charge of the minor unless the firearm is secured. Eliminates the provision that the person who stores or leaves the firearm is criminally liable only if the minor causes death or great bodily harm with the firearm. Provides that if the minor causes death or great bodily harm with the unlawfully stored firearm, the penalty is a Class A misdemeanor (rather than a Class C misdemeanor). Eliminates the provision that the firearm may be placed in some location that a reasonable person would believe would be secure from a minor.