In an effort to enhance safety measures, Michigan has introduced a new requirement for school districts to inform parents annually about the Secure Storage Law, effective from October 1. This legislation, which came into force in February 2024, mandates that unattended firearms in homes with children be stored unloaded in a secure, locked container.
To bolster awareness and compliance, two legislative bills, H.B. 5450 and H.B. 5451, known collectively as the “Safe Homes, Safe Schools Law,” have been introduced.
During a recent press conference organized by End Gun Violence Michigan, local officials and educational leaders expressed their endorsement of these gun safety measures.
State Representative Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy), a proponent of the legislation, remarked, “We all have a responsibility to keep kids safe from gun violence. And this responsibility inspired the legislation we’re celebrating today.”
Fellow State Representative Julie Brixie (D-Meridian Township), who also supported the bills, emphasized her ongoing commitment to gun safety initiatives, including emergency risk protection orders and universal background checks.
Brixie highlighted the importance of securing firearms: “The majority of K-12 school shooters are children, and the majority of accidental child firearm deaths are the result of guns left loaded and unlocked.” She noted the potential lifesaving impact of the legislation, while acknowledging the difficulty of enforcing these safety measures.
She further clarified that the bills do not impose new restrictions on gun ownership but aim to educate owners on safe storage practices.
James Alston, superintendent of Kelloggsville Public Schools, underscored the law’s intent, stating, “It’s not telling people they can’t own firearms. We are simply asking them to follow the law.” He added that free gun locks are available through local police departments.
Brenda Goss Andrews, a retired Detroit Police Deputy Chief and founder of the “It Starts at Home” Secure Storage program, advised that best practices include storing firearms unloaded, with ammunition separate and keys inaccessible to children.
Lisa Roscoe from the Michigan Parent Teacher Association shared her personal experience during the Michigan State University shooting in 2023, recounting the fear and uncertainty she felt for her son’s safety. “Safe storage can save lives,” she affirmed, highlighting the necessity for ongoing gun reform.
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