Rhode Island Senate approves gun storage bill

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Senate approved a bill Tuesday that would require the safe storage of firearms in Rhode Island.

The law requires that all firearms not in use be stored in a locked container or be equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock.

The bill passed by a vote of 28-7 and will go to the Rhode Island House of Representatives.

Unsafe storage of a firearm will be a civil offense punishable by a fine of up to $250 for the first offense and $1,000 for the second.

Subsequent offenses will be punishable by up to six months in prison and a find of up to $500.

“When a gun isn’t under the owner’s control, it’s not safe anywhere unless it’s secured,” said bill sponsor Sen. Pamela J. Lauria.

“Responsible gun owners already do this, but it should be a requirement, not an option,”